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THE PRIVATE 

JOURNAL and DIARY 



OF 



JOHN H. SDRRATT, 

THE CONSPIRATOR. 



EDITED AND ARRANGED BY 

DION HACO, E 

OF "BOOTH, THE ASSASSIN," THE "WAR NOVELS." LIVES 01 
NT, SHERMAN, SHERIDAN, LINCOLN, BUTLER," "GRANT 
AND HIS GENERALS," AC, &P 




Murder most foul." 

Shakespeare. 



NEW YORK: 
•KEDERIO A. BRADY, PUBLISHER, 



22 ANN STREET, near NASSAU. 



\ s l 



b 



Entered according to Aot of Congres*, in the year 1889, by 
SACKETT & MACKAY, 
the Clerk's Offloe of the DiatriotCourt of the United States, for the Southern District of New York. 



JOHN H. SURRATT'S PRIVATE DIARY. 



CHAPTER I. 



A MYSTERY ELUCIDATED. 




July 3, 1860. — Well, at last it is over, and I am fairly 
in it ! Am I satisfied ? Perhaps, yes ; it may-be, no ! 
My darling wish — the principal topic of my waking 
thoughts — my ever haunting nightly dreams — my 
heart's most earnest desire — oh ! the craving I for so 
long a time have had to expore the hidden mysteries 
of that — I dare not name it-Aias at last been gratified. 
And, oh! what an experience ! 

Last evening — I shudder as I think of it — will be one 
of the few most important — perhaps the most moment- 
ous of the epochs of my heretofore unknown life ; and, 
having chosen my path, must follow it to the end, for 
the road is open. Still I am yet in the dark ; and I 
have to learn, and must know more. 

Solemn, very solemn, indeed, was the occasion — 
horribly binding that obligation — fearfully terrible the 
penalty ; but it is over now, and I know the secret — 
at least, am acquainted with some of the awful myste- 
ries which overshadow the whole. 

What a crowd ! what a congregation ! The outside 
world would never believe that, in that dark room, 
there were to have been found men of all grades of 
^society. But it is true ; and the mighty machine, when 
it. begins to move, will permeate through all the stratas 
of official life. Cabinet members, high in office, were 
l 



12 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

there ; and so, also, the unsuccessful actors, who seek 
elsewhere the fame they failed to secure on the mimic 
stage — eminent Judges, who now, by their decisions, 
influence the destinies of the nation ; and editors, who 
wield a mightier weapon than the sword, and hold a 
lever that moves the world — Congressmen, who pretend 
to make our laws ; and roughs, who never fail to break 
them. All these were there, for I saw them. It was 
a strange union of opposing elements; but they all 
have their part to play in the drama of the " Coming 
Future," and I, among the number. 

I saw, there, many a familiar face, both of politician 
and prize-lighter; those who frequent the National 
Capital during the sessions of Congress, hang around 
the great halls of National Legislation, and appear 
daily in such style on Pennsylvania Avenue. John 
asserts that every one of these men will yet be needed ; 
for, in the great cause, all are equal, and they will each 
have their respective work to do. Had I but been told 
one-half of what is now known to me, it would have 
then seemed a fallacy, an impossibility. Were I still 
at College, it would seem to me as if I had been a vic- 
tim of some trick from my fellow collegiates. 

But is it all true ? Yes, terribly true ! 

One thing, however, is still fresh in my remembrance, 
vividly so — "I must neither write nor speak upon or 
about what I see or hear." No eye can see me now, 
none other than mine will ever peruse these lines; 
therefore, should I make a record of what I have 
learned, it cannot be of any injury to my friends or the 
cause. 

But a thought has just flashed across my mind — 
Why should I, with such a fearful warning, and terrible 
peril of the penalty before my mental vision, write a 
single word about last night's work ? Why risk the 
chance of so important a paper falling into any other 
other person's hands ? But can I not prevent any 
such mischance? Yes, certainly; it can be hidden. 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR 13 

Should this old house be destroyed, my labor may be 
in vain; but it shall never fall in the hands of an 
enemy. 

This is a very lonely place, and some employment is 
necessary, wherewith to occupy my mind; otherwise 
my anxiety will get the better of my reason, and I shall 
go crazy. Why does mother live here ? Why will she 
not live in the city ? Surely, there cannot be so many 
attractions in Surrattsville, that she should give up 
every comfort for the mere pleasure of residing in a 
place called by our name. If she can see anything 
charming in it, I do not; and I would willingly ex- 
change all that may be enticing— according to her 
ideas— for a good frolic in Washington, with those 
who are of my own turn of mind. Still, the time may 
come when some important change will and must take 
place ; tor it the cause succeeds— and succeed it must 
with such excellent plans— the name I bear will become 
as famous as any in history. Then, indeed, will this 
record prove valuable ; for it will show those in power 
that I was with them at the beginning, and kept true 
to the end If it prove but this, my diary will not 
nave been kept m vain. 

a I was in Washington, yesterday morning, waiting 
in anxious expectation, for the hour to arrive that wfs 
to make me a wiser if not a greater man. At half past 
twelve, yesterday afternoon, my friend came for me 
and we went together to the depot. He had very often 
spoken to me of what he had discovered, and did so 
even yesterday, as we were walking along; but yet he 
would give no more information than would serve to 
inflame my curiosity. That man is destined for a bril- 
liant career ; his ambition for fame is overpowering 
and appears never to be satisfied. He is certain to make 
for himself a name in history ; and he would almost re- 
fuse to die without it. How I envy him ! 

We got on board the cars for the monumental city 



14 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OP 

for it was there that I was to be instructed, and there I re- 
ceived — but my pen is too rapid for a mere simple record. 

How slow steam is for anxious minds ! I would, 
yesterday, have travelled by electricity, so anxious was 
I to learn those terrible secrets , and the laggard 
wheels appeared to revolve as slowly as those of the 
old wagon in by-gone times. Never did the ride seem 
so long and tedious, as during yesterday afternoon. 

But at length we arrived at the end of our journey, 
and were in the city of Baltimore. 

Shall I ever forget that large house on Monument 
Square ? I think not. On the outside, it had all the 
appearance of a fashionable dwelling, and the thousands 
that daily passed it by, never dreamed that in that 
stately, yet quiet building, were enacted the scenes I 
last night witnessed. 

It was not dark when we arrived — the meetings 
were held in broad daylight, doubtless in conseqence, 
that midnight meetings would have brought around 
us some of those lynx-eyed myrmidons who are always 
ready when they are not wanted — and instantaneously 
my companion ascended the steps. A slight push, and 
the door, to my great surprise, flew open immediately'; 
but, beyond, and barring our further progress, was a 
half-glass hall door covered, on the inside, with a close, 
thick lace curtain. As this is far from an uncommon 
circumstance with all respectable houses, it did not 
pointedly attract my attention until after the following 
strange things had transpired. 

Strict silence was enjoined on me by a sign from my 
friend, and I at once became as mute as death. 

A tap on the glass was next given — peculiar and 
significant was that signal — which was readily answer- 
ed from within. The heavy lace across the pane pre- 
vented my seeing anyone, although some person, on 
the watch, was apparently there. A third rap, soft, 
slight, yet certain, was given from without; then, with 
a jerk, the door flew wide open. 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 15 

The space beyond was vacant, and we passed at once 
vvithin. 

A death-like silence reigned around, and seemed to 
till me with dread. 

Where was the watcher? He could not anywhere 
be seen. How had he so quickly disappeared ? No 
door was observable except the one by which we had 
entered ; and yet the being who had answered the sig- 
nal was certainly not there. The only observable object 
was a series of carpeted stairs, which we, after closing 
the door, quietly and silently ascended, to the head of 
the first flight. At this place our path was blocked by 
a panelled wainscoting — the object of which I could 
not then divine. Our further movements seemed abso- 
lutely checked by an insurmountable obstacle. My 
friend and guide, however, appeared to know the se- 
cret; and, after an interchange of signal knocks, a 
panel flew open, and we passed through. 

The next moment the panel was again closed, and 
we were in darkness. 

I felt the chill of steel against my hand and face, 
and the next moment a sharp point of some weapon 
slightly pierced my breast. With a shudder I drew 
back, when a deep voice said, 

"Those who would pass here must face both fire and 
steel." 

" We are willing to face both — for Liberty," answer- 
ed my friend. 

" It shall be ours," replied the voice. " Pass ! " 

My hand was taken by someone (who, I know 
not,) and I was led, in the darkness, through what 
seemed to be an interminable passage, at the end 
of which was a door, which, as I approached, in- 
stantly flew open, apparently without cause or human 
aid. 

" Advance," said the voice, in a commanding tone. 

I moved forward, but not without some amount of 
nervous agitation. 



16 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

The door closed behind me, and I found myself in a 
large apartment, alone. 

" Where had my companion gone?" was the thought 
which naturally flashed across my mind. He had left 
me alone, in that strange and mysterious place, without 
one clue to guide my actions, or any one near of whom I 
could ask directions or request assistance. "What could 
I do ? and where really was I ?" 

Finding myself standing alone in that apaatment, 
the feeling naturally arose in my mind that it would be 
more pleasant to be seated; and finding every conven- 
ience therefore, I carelessly threw myself on a lounge 
to await the coming of my companion. 

While waiting, my eyes naturally wandered around 
the place, which appeared to be a handsome draw- 
ing-room, or something of that character, and was fit- 
ted up in a most elegant style. It seemed to be about 
fifty feet in length, by about thirty feet deep, in the 
form of an oblong square, one of the longer sides ap- 
parently facing the street, upon which a half dozen 
windows opened, in the most natural manner. There 
was no mystery on that side of the room. Between 
each of the windows hung a pier glass, of large dimen- 
sions, in heavy gilt frames, and had, apparently, not 
been removed from their places for years. Heavy cur- 
tains, partially covered the windows, but not enough to 
keep out the light, which flooded the apartment under 
the genial influence of the brightly shing sun. All 
this my vision embraced at a glance. 

The remaining walls now engaged my attention, and 
I then noticed that they were all covered with a rich 
paper, ornamented with a simple ring of gilt at regu- 
lar intervals. Pictures hung from ceiling to floor, 
many of them painted on canvass and stretched within 
handsome frames, being suspended by heavy bullion 
cords and tassels, and representing full length and life 
size portraits of noted men, among whom may be 
reckoned Calhoun, Pierce, Secretary Davis, and others ; 






JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 17 

together with representations of important events in our 
history, as a country, during the revolutionary period. 
The arms of the Southern States were also represen- 
ted in illuminated coloring ; but I saw none belonging 
to the Free States. A grand gaselier was hung sus- 
pended from the ceiling, and, on the blue painted ceil- 
ing, was traced in gold, a large and brilliant ring, pas- 
sing entirely around the filigree work which concealed 
the place where the plain pipe became united with the 
pendant. All this I soon observed, and began to tire 
of my silent examination. 

At last my attention was directed to the fact that 
not a door appeared to open from this apartment, with 
the exception of the one by which I had entered, and 
it now became a matter of mental wonder why and 
with what object I had been placed in this room, which 
seemed to lead to nowhere beyond. The absence of 
my friend, also, greatly perplexed me. 

[Here the writer appears to have been disturbed, as 
the diary is broken off at this place ; and, when re^ 
newed, the style of the handwriting and the color of 
the ink is somewhat changed, as if he had allowed an 
interval of time to elapse, before re-commencing the 
record. Other entries, relating to simple family mat- 
ters, and under various dates, had, certainly, meanwhile 
been made ; but as they have no connection with the 
thread of the important part of the writing — his con- 
nection with the conspiracy — it has been deemed advi- 
sable to omit them, both here and throughout the re- 
mainder of the work. In a book of this character, 
where space is limited, it is necessary to condense as 
much as possible, without destroying the purity of the 
original ; and, although many would like to see what 
Surratt has to say about his own family, it has been 
deemed advisable to erase such matters from this 
edition. Should circumstances warrant the issue or 
a larger work, these entries might then be given. — 
Editor.] 



18 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 



CHAPTER II. 

MORE ABOUT THE MYSTERY. 

Hesitation is bad, procrastination is worse. I had 
begun to write about my visit to Baltimore, and, since 
leaving off, have been but little inclined to renew the 
theme. But what is the use of keeping a diary unless 
everything is put down ? Therefore, as I have begun 
my private history, it may as well be made as perfect 
as possible. 

It might have been an hour, or only twenty minutes, 
that I had waited alone in that room ; but, as I took 
no account of the time, it seemed almost an age. 
Every feature of the apartment had been examined, 
and I could have described every color therein, from 
the paper on the walls, and the hangings of the win- 
dows to the uniforms of the revolutionary heroes, and 
the background of the portraits. Still no one came, 
and the solitude became painful. 

" Can this have been a deception?" thought I ; "and 
has the trip from Washington to this place been made 
only to play a trick upon me ?" 

Patience is a virtue, but still it may at times be 
overtested ; and, certainly, on this occasion, it required a 
great deal of it to reconcile me to remain (alone so 
long.) Young and impetuous, I wished to know the 
secret ; but, at the same, I had no desire to be kept 
there in that manner — especially, as it might after all 
only prove a trick, a practical joke of my friends play- ■ 
ing. This thought first excited me, then vexed, and 
finally made me mad ; and, in an instant, starting to 
my feet, I rushed to the door by which I had entered 
the room. Useless — it was fastened. 

" There is no help for it," thought I; " therefore the I 
best thing to do, is to wait and abide the result." 

The longer I had to wait, the more nervous I be- 



JOHN H. 8URRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 19 

came ; until at last my patience was entirely exhaust- 
ed, and a nameless dread took its place. The saluta- 
tions in the dark rushed to my memory; and the 
thought of facing lire and steel, to find out a secret 
that might in the end only prove worthless, was not 
entirely pleasant, even to me who never flinched from 
any known or open danger. 

While in this state of mind I heard a voice, from 
some invisible form, say : 

"Arise, and follow, if you would be made acquaint- 
ed with the secrets of the Knights of the Golden 
Circle." 

Without delay I sprang to my feet, but my guide 
was still not to be seen — at least, I had not yet ob- 
served him, although certain that the speaker must 
have been in the room when giving me the order to get 
up from my seat. 

Suddenly the room grew dark, and I became aware 
of the fact that, by some unaccountable means, the 
heavy curtains had dropped before the windows, and 
had thus excluded the light. The next moment my 
hands were seized on either side, each by a strong and 
gauntleted grasp, and an unknown and unseen person 
next placed a bandage over my eyes. Then my cloth- 
ing was torn from my breast, which was thus barer 1 ; 
and held and blinded, I was led from the room — whith- 
er, I knew not, and have not since divined. There 
seemed to be no end to the long path, if path it was ; 
and the doors that were opened and closed were so 
numerous that all attempt at counting their numbers 
was soon given up by me. 

At length we stopped before a door — at least, such I 
judged it to be, from the signal given upon it and re- 
turned from the other side — and the following question 
was asked in a military tone of voice ; 

"Who comes here ?" 

"One who is true to our cause," was the reply of 
one near mc. 



20 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

"How is he known to be true?" was the question 
next uttered by the first voice. 

"By the recommendation of a tried knight," replied 
my supposed guide, for the voice was strange to my 
ears, as indeed were they all. 

" He can then be trusted ?" were the next words ut- 
tered. 

" Such is our belief," was the reply. 

"But should he fail, and betray us — what then?" 

" He will learn the penalty soon enough." 

" Advance." 

We moved onward a few steps, when the eame cold 
contact with steel, and the same sharp but slight punc- 
ture of the breast, was felt, as on a former occasion. 
This time I did not flinch, although the sharp pain 
was as unexpected as before. Again I heard a solemn 
voice utter, in a slow and measured tone, the ominous 
words : 

" Those who would pass here must face both fire and 
steel." 

" Are you willing to do so?" asked another, ad- 
dressing me. 

Having, after a few moment's consideration, an- 
swered in the affirmative, I was again told to advance, 
and commanded to kneel, on what seemed to be a 
cushion, as it yielded slightly to the pressure of my 
knee. 

While in this position, an oath, terrible, horrible and 
appalling, was administered by the same solemn voice, 
and, while kneeling, I had to repeat the words after him 
in a slow and distinct tone, one hand resting on some- 
thing cold as ice, the other on a book which appeared 
to be open. 

The obligations taken, I was then informed that it 
would be necessary to remember every word I had ut- 
tered — can I ever forget them ? — and not to forget the 
penalty of a disclosure of what I should learn, or a be- 
trayal of the names of any one with whom I should be 






THE CONSPIRATOR. 21 

brought into companionship, no matter when, where, 
or under what pain, peril or promise. I was also ad- 
monished never to allude, either publicly or privately, 
to what I might then or hereafter learn ; always to be 
ready to assist a brother-knight, even unto death ; to 
abide by and follow all the directions of the order with 
which I had become connected ; to carry out the ob- 
jects which should be subsequently communicated to 
me, if found worthy of confidence ; to bear wit- 
ness and even to swear falsely in order to save a broth- 
er's life or liberty, if arrested for anything appertain- 
ing to the directions of the order; never to give a 
verdict against a brother, if on a jury to try him for any 
offense arising from directions emanating from the 
order, or any of its officers ; and, in every way, to 
make the business of the new body, to which I had 
become allied, pre-eminent before religion, political 
feeling, parental or fraternal duty, or even before love 
of country. It was to be first and foremost in every- 
thing, at daylight or midnight, at home or abroad, be- 
fore the law of the land or the affection for a wife, 
mother or child ; to be all and everything. 

"Are you willing to abide by this obligation?" 
asked the voice. 

What could I do, or say ? Refuse, I dare not ; for I had 
felt the sharp point of the sword at my breast, and the 
words of that horrible oath still rang in my ears and vibrat- 
ed through my aching brain. I was powerless to refuse, 
and therefore answered — faintly, it is true — in the affir- 
mative. 

" You remember the penalty ?" asked the voice. 

Could I have ever forgotten it ? Remember it ? Yes, 
indeed, did I remember it ; perhaps, too vividly for the 
calm reflection of my mind at that moment. The very 
question, calling up, as it did, the rememberance, made 
me silent for the time, and I could not give a reply. 

"Brother Knights!" exclaimed the voice, in a 
eolemn tone, " Recall to the mind of him who now 



22 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

kneels here, the penalty of betrayal, either by sign, 
word or deed." 

A sound like thunder rang around me ; the clang- 
ing of arms broke the former almost death-like silence, 
and a hundred or more voices murmured, hissed, 
whispered or groaned out, three times, the single word, 

" Death! Death ! ! DEATH ! ! !" 

The first sound was horrible in its solemnity ; the 
second utterance was terrible in its significance ; the 
third and last was appalling in the repetition and the 
grave-like silence which followed it. My senses al- 
most reeled under the influence of the fearful warning ; 
my tongue appeared to swell until it filled my mouth 
and nearly choked me ; I felt the hot blood rush over 
my brain and burn as it pursued its rapid course ; it 
seemed as if the tortures of all the infernal regions had 
come upon me in a moment ; I thought madness 
would be the result, unless the trial was soon to be 
ended, and yet I could not speak. And all this time 
my eyes were bandaged and my limbs bound. It was 
not the fear of death that caused within such terror — 
for I was willing to face any danger that could be 
seen ; it was not the binding obligation I had taken — 
for I had firmly resolved to be true ; but the nameless, 
unknown and unseen perils of that place and from those 
around me, appeared to call up to my imagination a 
thousand fears, indistinct and shadowy, yet plain 
enough to my mental vision. I had longed, craved 
for and enrnestly desired to obtain a secret; but 
would, at that moment, have given up all I then pos- 
sessed, or ever hoped to gain, could I have safely 
withdrawn from the "Circle" within which I found 
myself so inextricably enclosed. Shall I, can I ever 
forget that time, those few, long moments of agony ? 
Never ; no not while life remains within this body, 
or until my senses become benumbed with the frosts 
of age or imbecility. Never ! 

How long the silence lasted, I know not ; but the 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 23 

same solemn voice — it seemed miles away, and yet 
was plainly distinct — again addressed me in a slow 
manner, first repeating the awful word that had been 
repeated by so many voices, then admonishing me 
never to forget it, and finally inquiring whether I was 
ready to proceed with my initiation. I could return 
no verbal answer — my tongue refused its office — and 
I merely bowed my head, more mechanical than other- 
wise, for, to my present remembrance, it does not 
appear that I had any voluntary power left within my 
body. 

" It is well," said the voice. " Proceed !" 

A movement of feet was next heard by me, followed 
by a low murmur of voices ; the words uttered were 
drowned by the one single sound that burned through 
my brain, rang in my ears, appeared in letters of 
blood before my blinded eyes, and was present to me 
in every possible shape. That word was, 

" Death." 

The movements and sounds all ceased, and the 
solemn silence again ensued, which after a short in- 
terval was broken by the voice I had before heard, 
saying, 

"Show him all." 

A chorus of voices repeated the words, and the next 
instant the bandage was quickly taken from my eyes. 
For a few seconds my vision was blinded by the light, 
the dazzling light that fell upon me at that moment ; 
and, before I could recover from the strain thus in- 
flicted upon those organs of sight, I felt a number of 
sharp points pierce my breast, back and sides. My 
right hand had become almost frozen with the cold 
object upon which it rested, while the remainder of 
my body was in a perfect fever. I gave one glance 
around me, and, amid what appeared to be a cloud of 
fire, stood a number of armed men, clothed in coats of 
mail, their helmeted heads surmounted by red and 
white feathers, and their faces covered with barred 



24 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OP 

vizors of metallic plates. Each had a sword in his 
hand, and every one of the points were directed at my 
almost paralyzed body, puncturing the flesh, and caus- 
ing the smarts I had so recently felt. 

Gradually my sight became restored, and, one by 
one, the objects before and around me were visible. 
The mailed knights stood as still as statues, and any 
movement of mine might have caused a serious if not 
a deadly wound from one or the other of their weapons, 
which shone with a bright, glaring and flashing 
brilliancy on every side. Had I desired it ever so 
much, movement or escape was an impossibility. 

The light next appeared to become, through some 
invisible agency, slowly, very slowly of a dimmer char- 
acter, and to burn with less radiance and dazzling 
glare ; but whether this was actually the case, or some 
optical illusion, I am now at a loss to determine. I 
then perceived for the first time that I was kneeling 
before an an altar on which burned a dull blue flame ; 
that my left hand had rested on an open Bible, and my 
right — horror of horrors — on the face of a corpse. 

"Death!" 

How the word rang in my ears. With a horrify- 
ing glance I looked down towards the floor, and 
beheld another corpse, upon whose breast I had been 
compelled to kneel. 

" Death ! !" 

Again the word rang in my ears. I raised my eyes 
to those around, saw no glance of encouragement 
beyond those helmeted faces, and could comprehend 
nothing but the bright, polished swords, presented at 
me on every side. 

" DEATH ! ! !" 

Still that pitiless word was present. A mailed 
knight stood beyond the altar, in the direction from 
which I had heard that solemn voice, and with his un- 
sheathed sword he pointed silently to the ghastly 
object on which my right hand rested. Not a word 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 25 

emanated from his lips, but his sword's point echoed 
the appalling, terrible word, 

"DEATH!" 

Darkness appeared to spread itself before my vision. 
I felt my senses leaving me, and a nameless horror 
took possession of my whole soul. 

I saw and knew nothing more ! 

[Here again the record is broken by the entry of unim- 
portant items, among which are such things as allusions 
to the approaching elections, but without any com- 
ments worthy oi note. The writer seemed to think 
that the day was not lost until the final result was 
announced, and then his diary again becomes of interest 
to the reader. — Editor.] 



CHAPTEK m. 

THE election and what followed. 

November!, 1860. — So the railsplitter has been elected. 
Then our work is really to begin. I feared it, but 
hoped that there would have been no reason for trou- 
ble ; that there would have arisen no real cause for 
dividing the country. Yet it must now come, and 
will come, for I am too well assured the South will not 
allow itself to be ruled by a Black Republican. Not 
a single slave State has given him a vote, and yet he is 
elected. The balance of power has gone ; our party is 
no longer the unit it was ; in spite of the ramifications 
of that great order to which I belong, the power has 
slipped from our grasp, and without doubt the Slave 
States will all go out of the Union. They are fully 
prepared for it, and New York will join us — at least 
the " Herald" says so. The work will now begin, and 



26 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

we are sure to gain our point, as some of those now in 
power are on our side, and the work of separation will 
in a great measure take place before the new party 
comes in. All is prepared, and we are ready. 

December 24, 1860. — The work has begun in earnest. 
South Carolina is out of the Union. First in every- 
thing, she leads the way to glory. I wish it had been 
the good State of Maryland. But, although ready for 
the work, her time is not yet come. We may control 
events ; but cannot alter time as it is. But Maryland 
is all right, and, so are the rest of the States. We can 
also count upon New York and San Francisco. The 
work begins well. 

New Year's Day, 1861. — I made several calls to-day, 
and met many of the Knights. This calling serves 
more purposes than merely paying ceremonions visits. 
I heard some strange whispers among the ladies, and 
am not yet sure but that the present Administration 
may be compelled to hold for want of a constitutional 
successor. Such things have happened, and who knows 
what may again happen. 

January 3, 1861. — Visited Baltimore yesterday. 
Had a grand meeting. Several of the northern cities 
represented. Delegates said the Knights were only 
waiting for orders. They asserted the failure of the 
elections was a foregone conclusion; but that New 
York did her duty bravely. The fault lay with the 
State politicians. She was, however, ready to act at 
the proper time, and would prove true to the South, 
as her interest lay in that direction. The navy yard, 
would, if required, be in the hands of those who could 
control matters ; and, therefore, no war could be de- 
clared against the South ; while she would, virtually, 
hold all the government works by means of the action 
of the Knights. Half the army and navy officers are 
members ; so the work goes bravely on. 

[The remainder of the entries during the month of 
January are short and concise, and refer entirely to 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 27 

private matters, with the exception of the simple re- 
cord of the separation or secession of the various States 
of the Southern Confederacy, and the repeated remark 
that " the work goes bravely on." No very pointed 
allusion is made to Lincoln, personally ; neither are 
there recorded any words of anger or dislike to the 
Republican party. Cautiojj, in writing, seems to have, 
at this time, guided his pen, and the record is there- 
fore plain and simple and without comment. — 
Editor]. 

February 4, 1861. — The Southern States are forming 
themselves into a separate Confederacy, and making 
a new republic of their own. But Maryland does not 
seem willing to join in the movement, although Balti- 
more is all right. In some way or the other there is 
ftn undercurrent in the country parts against us. The 
Knights are working well, and are using all their influ- 
ence to change the political feeling ; but, although the 
majority think the South right, they do not feel in- 
clined to join. We are sure, at any rate, of a majority 
in the Legislature, and the State must go out. Then 
my fortune will be made, for the Black Republicans 
will never dare to force us to remain in the Union 
against our will. And the birthday of Washington 
is to be natal day of our new Confederacy — as good 
an omen as it is national and loyal. The delegates 
met to-day, at Montgomery, to organize the new gov- 
ernment. 

February 9, 1861. — The Constitution has been 
adopted, and Jefferson Davis has been declared Presi- 
dent. See how the order works. Our principal 
leader has been chosen our Executive chief. I am 
sorry they selected Stevens for Vice President — he's not 
true to the core. When is my turn to come to gut 
some of these honors ? 

February 12, 1861. — Lincoln started yesterday from 
Springfield. We met yesterday in Baltimore. That's 
a strange coincidence. Well, perhaps what we did 



28 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

and what we have resolved to do, may be pregnant 
with great results. Who knows what may happen be- 
fore Lincoln gets to Washington — if he ever gets 
there. 

February 18, 1861. — President Davis was inaugurated 
to-day in the Confederate capital. Hurrah for Davis ! 
Three groans for Lincoln and all the Black Republican 
crew. 

February 19, 1861. — So Lincoln has reached New 
York in safety. What are they all doing? Surely 
they could contrive some scheme to have upset the 
train, or something else, to prevent his ever reaching 
Washington. Should he fail to reach Washington, it 
will be all the better; but it has firmly been resolved 
that the Northern rail splitter shall never be inaugu- 
rated in that city where Southern gentlemen have 
heretofore directed the affairs of the nation. We have 
possession of all the Southern arsenals, thanks to the 
agency of our famous order, and we will also, at the 
proper time, have the Capital within our limits. We 
could easily take it now, but it will be better to take 
the Black Republican party with the city. What a day 
that will be, when we, of Maryland, proclaim to the 
South that the noble city of Washington is hers, and 
can be held by her as the Capital of the Southern Con- 
federacy. It is all prepared. 

February 20, 1861. — Booth called on me to-day. He 
gave me a glowing account of his visit to Richmond, 
and asked me to join him in an expedition that would 
make us famous and give us plenty of money besides. 
He has had an interview with several of the leading 
men of the South, and they have offered him great 
inducements to prevent the Presidential party — as it 
is called — fiom ever reaching Washington. He has 
been entrusted with the carrying out of the whole 
affair, and I am to join him at the proper time. The 
plan is fixed and cannot fail. The party must go to 
Harrisburg. Now between Harrisburg and Washing- 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 29 

ton stands the city of Baltimore. The Gunpowder 
Bridge is not the safest bridge in the world, if the 
scheme for operating on it is only properly carried 
out. But there is danger in that plan that should not 
be overlooked. The chances are that the trap set to 
catch the rat — meaning the Presidential party — may 
only serve to capture a mouse (some other train) and 
let the rat escape. Thus all our labor and patience 
would be thrown away ; besides, risking the danger of' 
surprising our friends as well as enemies and uselessly 
destroying life. The South is rich, and would be will- 
ing to pay any amount that might be required to 
secure to them their independence without shedding 
the blood of her sons; but it does not seem to me 
likely that she will pay anything at all for a scheme 
that may end in a total and disgraceful failure. To my 
mind, it would be as well if Booth and the whole party 
would talk the matter over again, before deciding on 
any particular plan. He seems to be impressed with 
the idea that something can and ought to be done to 
prevent Lincoln from reaching Washington. I am 
ready for anything, as he knows, and as I have told 
him ; but still it is my firm opinion that if the inde- 
pendence of the South depends mainly on the fact that 
Abraham Lincoln is prevented from reaching the city 
of Washington before the 4th of March, their cause 
rests upon a very shallow foundation, and a shaky one 
at that. I do not like a wholesale murder, and would 
prefer that Lincoln lived, in order that he might be an 
eye-witness to glorious success of the South in her at- 
tempt to obtain her freedom from the tyranny of the 
Northern Abolitionists. 

February 21, 1861. — I saw Booth to-day. Who was 
that woman he had with him ? She seemed to be urg- 
ing him on against his will. Whenever he failed to 
speak strongly enough on the subject of to-morrow's 
work, she at once caught his eye, and he, that bold 
and daring fellow, quailed as if detected in a crime. 



30 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OP 

She seems far more resolute than he. But who is she, 
and what has she to do in the matter ? Why did not 
Booth introduce her by name ? There seems to be a 
strange mystery about all this that should not be be- 
tween friends -and brothers. When he introduced me 
to the order of the K. G. C, I supposed that there 
would be no secrets between us, and expected to deal 
with men, not with women. This matter is of a far too 
serious character to be trusted to those who would be 
likely to babble — and women will chatter. I should 
not be surprised that, by to-morrow night, the ever- 
present newspaper reporter will have telegraphed, all 
over the whole South, the plans we have laid out to 
effect the capture of Lincoln and his party, and we 
shall have to thank this woman for betraying us — she 
is bound by neither oath nor obligation. What a fool- 
hardy trick of Booth to trust such a secret into 
the hands of a woman. I feel ashamed of my 
companion. 

Washington's Birthday, Morning. — Last night, we 
met and decided on the plan to be adopted. 

The train is to be stopped on Gunpowder Bridge. 
A number of those roughs who were present at my ini- 
tiation are then to enter the train, to take possession of 
the minor characters of the party, and especially to 
look after the immediate attendants; Rob. is to attend 
to the reporters, and, being a newspaper man, knows 
well enough how to keep them all amused ; Booth and 
I are to draw Lincoln and Hamlin out of the car for a 
minute, when the remainder will be ready to hurry 
them off to place where they will be safe for some time 
to come at least. 

That is the scheme to be carried out, and cannot well 
fail. The party sleep at Harrisburg to-night. Booth 
says that woman is in the secret, having been especially 
chosen by the Southern Government for the purpose, 
and that he made her acquaintance in Richmond. 

That may all be true, so far as he knows ; but I have 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 31 

no confidence in her. She ought to have known noth- 
ing about it. But I can plainly see that Booth is infa- 
tuated with that woman ; and, if the impersonation of 
Richard has any one failing more than aD other, it is his 
attachment to females and female society. I believe 
he would sell his very soul to please a woman with 
whom he had become familiarly acquainted. I wonder 
where that woman is now. She is not with Booth, 
that is certain ; for he left me at his hotel and seemed 
angry to find she had disappeared. 

February 22 — Evening, — That woman has returned — 
so Booth says — and the plans are all right. 

But where has she been all this day ? It is very 
strange that she should have so suddenly disappeared — 
no one knows whither — and has again made herself one 
of our party. There is something very strange in all 
this, and I like it not. It is my certain opinion that 
President Davis, at Montgomery, should never trust 
his plans to a woman in Richmond. 

I have no faith in women. They are all alike, fickle, 
faithless and false. I am convinced that Booth's 
woman would sell the whole of us for a twenty-dollar 
piece. She looks like it. 

But Booth's weak point is woman; and, where she 
leads, he is bound to follow. I should have thought 
he had seen enough of them by this time to have been 
convinced that what I have said to him is true. But 
no, he says she is all right, and that her absence has 
been from a right motive. Well, if so, I should like 
to know that motive, if only to be assured of my own 
safety. He believes in her, and may continue so to do ; 
but I do not, and that is as certain as that I am now 
making this entry in my diary. 

Should she prove false, I will show this to Booth, 
to convince him that the opinion I held of her this 
night was what she had proved to be. 

Who is she ? and why does Booth keep her name so 
secret ? I do not like women at all ! and certainly not 



32 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

women without names. There is no good in them, of 
that I am convinced. 

February 23. — Failed ! " Lincoln is in Wash- 
ington!" "Went through Baltimore last night in 
secret." " The detectives had received notice of a plan 
to assault, outrage and perhaps assassinate the Presi- 
dent while passing through Baltimore." That r s the 
heading in this morning's papers. So all oui fine 
schemes have failed ! But how ? Who told the de- 
tectives ? I believe, and am convinced that it was no 
one else but that woman. I wonder what Booth will 
say to this paragraph when he sees it. 

Booth called on me, and in a rage said, " the bright 
hope of the Confederacy had faded." I know that; 
and with it all my chances for fame and honor. Booth 
seemed like a madman, for he placed more reliance on 
the effect of this scheme than I ever did. What good 
would it have done in the end, by the mere capture 
and detention of Lincoln ? And what harm can the 
States of the South suffer from him, if they are all out 
of the LTnion, as they have declared they are ? Seven 
states are now out, certain, and the others will follow. 
From what I know I do not believe that Lincoln is 
any safer in Washington than he would have been in 
Baltimore. If there had been any desire on the part 
of the order to take his life, that could have been safely 
accomplished in any of the Northern cities, and as 
easily as in Baltimore ; and, I am convinced, such a 
plan, if desired, can yet be accomplished in Washing- 
ton. But such a deed is not desired by anyone 
connected with the welfare of the Southern cause — at 
least such is my firm opinion. 

February 25. — "General Twiggs has surrendered 
the Army in Texas." At last the news has reached 
the North. How finely the order works out its power. 
Lincoln is elected, but he is not President of the 
United States. He is chosen, by the Abolitionists, 
" Commander-in-Chief of the XL S. Army and Navy," 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 33 

and jet, before he even assumes command, he learns 
that there is no army to command, and will soon find 
there is no navy. Had old Scott only been induced to 
have joined us, there would not have even been a rem- 
nant of the Army. The officers are dwindling out one 
by one ; and, even of those that remain, fully one half 
are bound by oath to support our cause, if any attempt 
should be made to put down the Seceding States by 
force. 

It is rumored here in Washington that the distant 
naval squadrons are to be ordered home ; but, well I 
know, that when the vessels come home, there will be 
no officers to command them. Our friend in the Cabi- 
net have taken care of that, and the Navy is as rotten 
as the Army. The cause is sacred and secure ; and the 
South can safely defy the whole power of the new Gov- 
ernment. 

Besides, are not all the offices in the various 
Bureaus surrounded by our spies, and can anything be 
done without the South being at once advised by 
them. The only power in this country, at the present 
moment, is vested in us, the " Knights of the Golden 
Circle." 

[The next few entries are written in characters, that 
are entirely unintelligible, except to the initiated. — 
Editor.] 



CHAPTER IV. 

THE INAUGURATION — FRUSTRATED PLANS. 

March 3, 1861. — To-morrow is to be the inaugura- 
tion ; and, in spite of all our preparations, it will take 
place. What excellent arrangements had been made 
to have prevented it ; and how the whole thing has 



34 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OP 

been spoiled. It is strange that the plans that were 
made in secret session in Baltimore should have been 
discovered — at least it appears so by the preparations 
of the Government. The " Wide Awakes " are to have 
the place of honor ; and it has been impossible to get 
our members into that order — if order it is. We have 
not been able to learn any of their secrets, although 
they appear to know ours. The Headquarters of the 
K. G-. C. has been notified, from lew York, that mem- 
bers of the Wide Awake association have been 
discovered among the " Circles V in that city. Whose 
fault is that ? There has been too much laxity in the 
admission of members lately. Desirous of gaining 
strength, they have admitted candidates who have not 
been as sound as they ought to have been ; and one 
rotten plank may perhaps sink a ship. Our meetings 
are not kept quite secret, and I know the reason of 
that. To gain the support of certain newspapers, the 
editors and reporters have been admitted to member- 
ship ; and, when it serves their interests, they make 
money or sensational paragraphs of the most vital 
points of our secret meetings. Some of these have 
lately been published in the New York press; and 
nothing less than treason or treachery could have given 
those journals the necessary information. I have no 
faith in newspaper support. It will fail us when we 
most want it. There are proofs of it at the present 
time. From the letters that are published in the New 
York journals, it is plain that spies are traveling 
through the South. This should have been looked 
after. Too much information has been given these 
traveling correspondents. Some of them are moving 
about with a double character — representing one paper, 
known to be in our interest, and writing to another. 
Some of these fellows will yet be hung, as they should 
be, by the neck or heels, to the first tree near which 
they may be captured. There should be no mercy 
shown to traitors. But for treachery, we might at 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR 35 

this very hour have been masters of the National 
Capital ; whereas our professed enemies, the Abolition- 
ists, are now in full possession. Our best-laid plans 
are being defeated. Even in those newspaper offices 
which are our supporters, are posted the spies of the 
Abolitionists ; and every word uttered within the sup- 
posed sacred limits of the Editorial rooms is sent to 

the Government. I know it. When in the office 

in Baltimore, yesterday, while I was conversing with 
one of the editors, a Knight, I noticed a man taking 
notes, in short-hand, of our conversation ; and, to-day, 
one of the clerks in Washington told me that a full 
report of our conversation had been placed on tile in 
his Bureau. This system of espial will yet defeat us, 
if measures are not taken to put a stop to it. But how 
is it to be done ? 

March 4, 1861. — The inauguration is over. Abra- 
ham I, King of Columbia, has been crowned ! The 
plan, agreed upon last uight in the Circle here, failed 
from want of nerve in the party selected to carry it 
out. But for that, the throne would be vacant. Now 
will ct>me the hour of trial. The South will not sub- 
mit to be ruled by an Abolitionist, and the Federal 
Government will accept of no compromise. Well, we 
can fight, and we will light. 

I wish Booth would get rid of that woman. I do 
not like her, and am morally certain she has defeated 
many of our plans. He places too much confidence in 
her. She says she is a true daughter of the South; 
but it is very strange that shortly before any important 
work is to be done, she disappears for a time, 
and failure is as certain to be the result. I shall sug- 
gest at next meeting that a watch be put upon her 
movements. 

[The daily entries that follow, for the next month, 
are merely brief records of the progress of events in 
the South, such as : " March 6, Fort Brown surren- 
dered." &c, and therefore onlv useful to the sta- 



36 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

tistical reader. They are therefore omitted here. — 
Editor.] 

April 5, 1861. — It is very plain that the South has 
not looked forward quite as wisely as they might have 
done. Why did they not secure Fort Sumter in the 
same way that the other defences had been taken care 
of? Have they been deceived in Anderson? Did 
they think that because he was a Southern man, he was 
certain to be in sympathy with our cause ? If so, the 
policy was short-sighted, to say the least of it. They 
ought to have taken warning by New York. City, in 
which were to be found a number of Northern men, 
(members of our own order,) who have no sympathy 
with the Northern cause. Sumter will cause us 
trouble yet. Anderson says he will not give it up, and 
while he remains there, his position is a menace both 
to Moultrie and the city of Charleston. But will he 
dare to fire on the South ? Yes, I believe he will dare 
anything, if he is driven to it. And yet it will not be 
wise to allow the Federal flag to wave at the entrance 
to the harbor ; and thus show to the world that we 
have no power to pull it down. South Carolina is 
making preparations to bombard the Fort ; but whether 
she will do it, remains to be seen. She was the first 
to inaugurate secession — will she be the first to open a 
war ? And if a war is commenced — will Lincoln re- 
taliate by making war on the South ? Should he de- 
clare war, will the Northern States respond ? We are 
sure of the Governors of Virginia, Kentucky and Mis- 
souri — they belong to us — but the Northern States 
have all chosen Abolitionists, who would only be. too 
glad of the chance of fighting the South for their 
darling theory. War seems to be certain ; but yet we 
have a strong influence in the North that may be 
brought to bear on the minds of the people. Some of 
the militia are sworn to us, and they will either refuse 
to go, or disband and join our forces. The cause is 
far from lost, and Fort Sumter will be the test. 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 37 

April 6, 1861. — Have just seen one of us in the ISTavy 
Department. He says a vessel is under orders to sail 
with troops, arms and provisions from New York for 
Fort Sumter. 

Have consulted with some of the Circle, and it is 
agreed to send on a cypher dispatch to give warning 
of the movement. 

Dispatch sent this evening. 

April 7, 1861. — The Bteamer has started with the 
troops — at least my informant has so stated — but she 
will never get to Fort Sumter. 

April 8, 1861. — The Government has notified the 
Governor of South Carolina that Fort Sumter shall be 
re-inforced — by force, if necessary. Too late, they 
know it already. 

Booth's woman tried to find out from me what were 
to be our plans in the event of a war breaking out. I 
am not quite so easily to be worked upon as Booth, so 
she ascertained — nothing. 

The Abolitionists would not receive the Confederate 
Commissioners, on the ground that " Government can- 
not form treaties with subjects." King Abraham I. 
will find but few Americans that will acknowledge 
themselves to be his subjects. What a fine theme to 
work upon the minds of the Northerners. I shall 
move that matter to-night in the Circle, and see if we 
cannot make the answer a first-rate lever to work 
upon. 

Two more steamers directed to sail from New York 
for the South, under sealed orders. Where to? Char- 
leston, I suppose. They know it by this time, and will 
give the invaders a warm reception. 

April 9, 1861. — The preparations are all complete at 
Charleston, and the Fort is to be bombarded. Our 
work meanwhile is to raise up sympathy in the North 
for the Confederates, and to declare that Anderson 
will only make a show of fighting, and then surrender. 
Leave to-night for other places in which I can operate 



38 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

better, as troops are arriving here under a pretense of 
defending the capital. Spies are about everywhere ; 
but we have received ample warning. 

April 12, 1861. — Arrived here (N. Y.) last night. 
Have been busily at work in Baltimore, Philadelphia 
and Trenton. The order is doing well everywhere. 

The fighting has commenced at Charleston. Ander- 
son is said to be really fighting in earnest ; but we are 
encouraging our friends by the statements that it is 
only a mere feint, and that the shots are so aimed that 
they will not hurt anyone. Lincoln said that there 
is " nobody hurt," and of course we have repeated 
his words with good eftect. The North is greatly 
divided. 

April 13, 1861. — Great excitement here (N. Y.) about 
the fighting ; but everybody appears to wish the South 
will win. The papers are issuing extras with all the 
dispatches received from the South. The Herald sup - 
ports our cause bravely. 

April 14, 1861. — The News has reached New- York 
that the United States flag has been lowered from over 
Sumter. Great excitemen there. (N. Y.) The feeling 
of the people seems to be changing, and, if it lasts, 
there will be a fearful war. Our work very difficult. 

April 15, 1861. — Rode about in the cars, and tried 
to advocate the cause of the South. Was more than 
once threatened with personal violence. The excite- 
ment is terrible. Must wait until it subsides. 

April 16, 1861. — The Herald out for us strongly. 
People very excited, and demanded of the Herald that 
it should show its colors. Had no colors to show, and 
borrowed a flag from a neighboring flag-maker. Called 
on them to know the reason of such a display of bun- 
tine, and was referred to the Chief Editor, who was not 
to be seen. 

Lincoln calls out the militia. Some of the regiments 
are responding, and the people are urging them on. 
Unless the feeling changes, this is no place for me. 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 39 

Several of the Knights have been subjected to personal 
violence. 

April 17, 1861. — The Herald agamst us to-day ; as 
strongly in favor of the Government, as it was against 
it yesterday. The excitement is so great that we can- 
not work, and must leave for a better field. 

Left for Philadelphia, and found the field of opera- 
tions there no better to work upon than in New- York. 
Tried my best, in company with others, and got 
knocked down twice. Determined to return to Balti- 
.more. 

April 18, 1861. — Arrived this morning in Baltimore. 
Great excitement every where. Met Booth here. He had 
been to Montgomery, which is chosen as the Confede- 
rate provisional capital. He had been playing there 
as a "star," and had succeeded better than might have 
been expected. His former experience on the stage 
might have led him to expect a different result ; but, 
in my opinion, success arose more from his connection 
with our order than from any extra display of genius. 
He had given out here in Baltimore that his reason for 
returning North, is in consequence of an injury he had 
met with from the accidental explosion of a pistol ; 
but, in private, I learned that he had been chosen as a 
secret agent to visit the North and inflame the minds 
of the doubtful, strengthen those who remained favor- 
able to the cause, and counteract against the influences 
of the Abolitionists, who have begun to gain an 
unusual ascendancy over the minds of the people. He 
has invited me to join him in the work. 

Met in secret conclave with the Knights, to consult 
as to the best means to be adopted to prevent the troops 
from reaching the National Capital. Remained in 
session late tonight, and finally resolved on our plans, 
which were very systematically laid out — having been 
assisted at our consultations by some advice from able 
military officers, now on duty in Washington, and who 
have been used to campaigning. The signal agreed 



40 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

upon, for the commencement of operations, is to be 
the arrival of the Northern troops — and we shall learn 
of their approach "through our friends in the telegraph 
office — and further assistance will be afforded by the 
non-interference of Kane's police. This will give us 
a better opportunity to locate our various operating 
parties. 

Now the work begins in earnest. Success must and 
will attend us. 



CHAPTER V. 

THE EXCITEMENT IN BALTIMORE — ATTACK ON THE TROOPS. 

April 19, 1861, Morning — "Well, we have our work be- 
fore us, and I trust there will be no failure this time. 
From all the preparation, and from the well-known 
feelings of those residing in the city of Baltimore, the 
prospects are everything that could be desired. 

What a meeting took place here on the night of the 
17th. It is really surprising that such assemblies should 
have been allowed ; but, then, the police are all on our 
side, and, that being the case, there is no one to say — 
that care to say anything that would be likely to have 
any effect upon the matter — that is, so far as it would 
influence the stopping of the public assemblies. As 
long as they cannot bring a charge against the sup- 
porters of the South, of having committed an overt 
act against the peace of the country, these meetings 
will doubtless go on; and every one knows well that, 
in spite of both President and political partizanship, 
they will have their influence on the masses farther 
north. 

So far as Baltimore is concerned, the reduction of 
the Fort in Charleston Harbor has done us no harm. 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 41 

It i8 only in the cities farther north that it has proved 
an evil ; and now that the troops are on the move, the 
mercurial feelings of the people have reached a high 
point — blood heat. But this will soon subside, and 
then we must to work again. 

The fall of Sumter has certainly gained us a number 
of friends here, at any rate. The "demonstration 
meeting," as it is called, was certainly one of the most 
excited of its kind, and, as far as sentiment was con- 
cerned, was equal to any thing that the best friends of 
the South could have desired. What fiery speeches ! — 
that is, if any reliance can be placed on the reports that 
appeared in the papers here. I thought, and havebeeu 
told, that Booth is a good actor on the stage ; but he 
never could have excelled, even in his favorite charac- 
ter of Richard III., the great speech made by him 
at that meeting. All the city is full of it, and every 
second man is praising him for what he then said. 
Well ! he loves fame, and he has it now, at any rate. 

I was expected, by some of our party, to have been 
in the city on the 17th, and to have delivered a speech 
to the meeting. It is said that my name was 
set down by the committee to have said something 
startling to the people. But then I do not waste time 
in talking — I act. Even had I been here, it would have 
been next to useless to have attempted to have fol- 
lowed Booth in a speech suitable to the occasion. I 
might, with just as many chances for success, have tried 
to have put my arms around the monument in the 
Square, for the purpose of leveling it with the earth, 
as to have thought of following Booth in a speech upon 
such a subject. Besides which, I was elsewhere em- 
ployed, and otherwise engaged. 

What an excitable fellow Booth is ! Ambitious for 
fame, he sometimes allows himself to be carried away 
beyond his fair reason. For instance (and I shall here 
record it for future reference) as we were coming away 
from the Circle last night, he and I had some con versa- 



42 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

tion on the character of the excitement and feeling of 
the people in the city of New York. 

"What," asked he, with very evident anxiety," are 
the chances of a change ?" 

"None," I answered, promptly. 

"None!" he repeated, somewhat savagely. "And 
pray why do you say that word so positively ?" 

" Because I have had a chance of knowing," I re 
plied. 

" Where are the Knights ?" asked he. 

"They have not the slightest chance to act there," 
was my answer; "with any degree of safety." 

" Safety !" repeated he. " Are they cowards ?" 

The tone of contempt and derision with which these 
three words were uttered, plainly showed to my mind 
the character of the man, with whom I was thus "brought 
in contact. He seemed to think that the names of 
Knight of the Golden Circle and coward, could not 
be spoken with the same breath. 

Wishing to check his anger a little, I answered with 
a plain but simple 

"No!" 

" Then why," he inquired, "are they afraid to face a 
little feeling of temporary excitement, which may sub- 
side in a few hours ? Have they forgotten that the 
cause of the South is both a righteous and just cause — 
men rising for the support and maintenance of their 
priceless liberty?" 

To this I replied in words indicating that the upris- 
ing in New York was no more spontaneous ebullition 
of party feeling, but the kindling of an enthusiastic 
patriotism, mingled with fanaticism. This feeling, I 
informed him, was so great in the metropolis, that 
the first word uttered in a public place in support of 
the South, was sure to be followed by a severe blow 
from some person present. 

Booth knitted his brows and ground his teeth with 
some amount of savageness in his manner. 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 43 

"Such knock-down arguments," I added, " cannot 
be considered as pleasant, or the best means to be em- 
ployed to keep up a man's courage. I don't mind a 
blow when there is a fair chance of retaliating ; but to 
be sent to earth, amid the jeers of those who are not 
in sympathy with you, and to hear the shout of ' serve 
him right' ringing in your ears as you fall, is not 
exactly pleasant. Beside which, when you are down, 
there is not a single person in the city who would 'step 
out of his way to help you up, or even to defend you 
from assaults while rising to your feet." 

Again Booth ground his teeth as if with a kind of im- 
potent rage, and glared at me with the look of a tiger 
deprived of his prey. 

" Their time will yet come" said he. 

Before I could reply he looked up with a difi'erent 
expression of countenance — his face being overspread 
with a curiously sardonic smile — and he muttered a few 
quotations from his favorite author, Shakspeare. The 
selections were taken from his principal characters, and 
seemed to apply as well to the actual state of affairs as 
if he had written them to suit the time and occasion. 

After a while he resumed the conversation in a more 
natural mood and tone of voice. 

" So, so," he remarked, u the North, or rather the so- 
called pro-slavery democrats of the North, are not to be 
relied on in this crisis?" 

I replied in the negative. 

"And those who have fattened on the South," he 
continued, "and who have promised us their full sup- 
port, when required — have they now turned their backs 
upon us ?" 

My reply was simply an unqualified affirmative. 

" And this will apply to the whole North ?" asked 
he, in a sharp, quick tone. 

"In this," I replied, "the North is a unit." 

" Then may the eternal gods wither them !" he ejac- 
ulated through his set teeth ; "and, if they hope to sub- 



44 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

due the South, may their desires be turned into ashes, 
that shall scatter and eat into their own flesh." 

"Amen" I responded. 

Booth now relapsed into a sullen silence, of a very 
moody character ; and as I had no desire to be treated 
to any more dramatic exhibitions, nor felt in any mood 
to listen to his theatrical outpourings of venom, I also 
kept silent on the subject, and we walked home togeth- 
er to his hotel. I noticed, however, that he appeared 
to walk still very lame, from his recent accident at 
Montgomery. 

I called this morning on the Chief of police, and 
have received assurances that everything has been done 
that can be done to render our work this morning 
easy. Of course, he will not appear to act in the 
matter, as all our movements are supposed to be un- 
known to him. 

During the early hours, both Booth and I have been 
moving about among the roughs, and, where I found 
the love of riot was not a sufficient inducement to make 
them join us in the coming movement, I worked upon 
their love of State. 

"If," I intimated, " if Maryland would secure for 
herself that independence she most desires — to make 
her own laws and govern her own citizens — she must 
herself strike the blow for freedom. Remember" I 
added, "the men who would now oppose the South are 
Yankee abolitionists, who have no soul above the price 
of a dollar, and would swap away the very jack-knife 
that may be required in the day's work." 

These remarks did more to inflame the passions of 
those men than all the offers of money or the tempta- 
tions of plunder, and I feel sure of their support at the 
right moment. I . 

[Here the diary appears to end somewhat abruptly, 
as if the writer had been disturbed at the moment 
of commencing a sentence, and doubtless, judging from 
the contexts, it was the anxiously expected arrival of 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 45 

troops that had caused him to break off in his entries — 
Editor.] 

April 19, 1861. Evening — Well, the day is over, and 
all the city is in a perfect furore of excitement. We 
have been entirely successful ; and the first victory on 
the soil north of the Potomac has been achieved by the 
South, to-day, in the city of Baltimore. Those who 
sympathise with us are masters of the city to-night 

This is the anniversary of the battle of Lexington, 
and I look upon this fact as a good omen for the 
future. The South must win the day in the end ; and, 
if they only act as promptly as we have done, great 
news will reach us soon from our neigboring city of 
Washington. I trust the Sons of the Old Dominion 
have not been behind-hand in their movements, and 
have followed up promptly what we have so ably 
begun. 

Although the motive power, that has assisted in 
driving on the mighty machine, Booth and I, like the 
hidden steam, have as yet taken no outwardly active 
part in the affair of to-day. We have given the orders, 
and they are sure to be ably carried out, by others less 
likely to be recognized by-and-by. 

Our plans have been completely successful, and the 
few troops that have passed through the city, have not 
escaped without carrying the marks of war with them. 
They came to make war upon the South, and South- 
erners have administered the first blow, both here and 
in Charleston. 

Never were plans so ably made, so skillfully concoct- 
ed, and so excellently carried out. The operations 
have been executed at the same time on all sides. No 
more Yankee troops will ever pass through the city of 
Baltimore for the purpose of invading the Southern 
States of this Republic — or rather the States of the 
New Republic. Perhaps the Yankees will remember 
this day for some time, and leave us alone — that is all 
we ask. 



46 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

Booth and I have had the principal management of 
the whole affair, although neither of us have appeared 
on the scene of strife. This precaution will render 
us less objects of suspicion from meddlesome persons ; 
and we will be able to operate better in this quiet way, 
than if we were better known. 

For once in his lifetime, Booth has been able to carry 
out a project without the advice or assistance of a 
woman. Queen Anne was Richard's bane, and had 
that creature of John's but been aware of what our 
operations were to have been, ten to one they would 
have been spoiled. As it is, all has gone off as well as 
could have been desired. 

We have taken every one by surprise — North, 
South and Centre. Even the authorities — those who 
were in the secret — are amazed at the amount of our 
success. It is no ordinary success. All the railroads 
leading in and through this city have been destroyed — 
either broken up, cut down or burned. Not a single 
Yankee soldier can be sent from the North through 
Baltimore to Washington, and they cannot reach that 
city by any other route. Neither can the Abolitionists 
in the Capital send troops north to suppress this move- 
ment here. The road from Annapolis to Washington 
is also thoroughly torn up by this time, therefore the 
Abolitionists cannot reach the city where Abraham I. 
reigns, even by vessels from the South. The Potomac 
is also guarded at points that will prevent troops 
from ascending that river; and the City of Magnifi- 
cent Distances is cut off from its "loving people." 
Lincoln and his crew will be starved out, as they have a 
couple of thousand more than ordinary to feed. 

The telegraphs have also been cut in every direction, 
therefore information of our movements cannot well 
be sent on in either direction. This will prevent the 
concentration of troops for some time, and as delays 
are sometimes of great value in gigantic struggles, 
something may be gained by this. 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 47 

Virginia has declared herself for the Confederacy, 
and new she will have to fight for it as well. If 
her sons have only been ready to act, "Washington 
ought by this time to be in the hands of those who 
are favorable to the cause of the Independence of the 
Southern States as a separate Confederacy from the 
Northern. 

[The entries that follow for the next few days show 
plainly that a disreputable state of anarchy reigned 
within the city of Baltimore, and that the writer and 
Booth were intimately mixed up with the whole affair. 
As these facts are matters of history, and are ot too 
great a length to be embodied in this small work, it 
has deemed advisable to omit their publication in this 
edition. — Editor.] 



CHAPTER VI. 

surratt's relations with northern merchants. 

May 15, 1861. — Visited New York yesterday, hav- 
ing escaped the surveillance of the military forces now 
stationed in Baltimore. 

That city is becoming somewhat dangerous, just 
now, for the members of our order to act therein ; and 
the military commander, which the Abolitionist Presi- 
dent has chosen to place over a free people, is a perfect 
tyrant. " Set a thief to catch a thief is an old max- 
im, and a true one ; therefore place a turncoat democrat 
in power over democrats and he is their bitterest 
enemy. The citizens of Baltimore will yet find out 
what a tyrant they have had placed over them. Not 
a movement is made without his knowledge ; and in a 
short time, the poor unfortunate Southern patriot finds 
himself in the grasp of the military power. Thus is 



48 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

the Constitution overridden by petty tyrants, and the 
true born sons of the South are held down by their, 
Yankee oppressors. They will soon, if they can, make 
slaves of every white man of the South, and none will 
be so ready to aid in such a measure as that Yankee 
lawyer turned soldier. 

Called to-day on the large shipping firm of * 

to whom I had letters of introduction. They are in 
the " Circle" and have contracted to supply the South 
with a large quantity of arms, uniforms, stores, &c. 
The letter, together with our private means of intro- 
duction, has made me receive a very friendly welcome, 
and by their instrumentality I hope to be able to move 
among some very influential persons in the North so as 
to carry out my mission of sowing discussion among 
the ranks of the Abolitionists. If it is only possible 
to retard the enlistment furore, perhaps some little ad- 
vantage may be gained thereby. 

By-the-way, it seems very strange to me that this 
firm can take a large order from the Yankee President 
to supply the troops of the North with uniforms, and 
yet will contract with the South for the same purpose. 

I spoke to ,the leading partner, on "the subject 

and he says, the taking of the orders by him from the 
State Authorities of the North, is a blind to cover up 
the others. 

" If uniforms were to leave here, without such a pre- 
caution, it would bring upon us the vigilance of the 
Police, who have been invested with a sort of semi- 
military authority. Had the old fashioned Mayor's 
Police been in existence, we should have been all right; 
for those, who would then have been in command, 
would have done all they could to have served the cause 
of the South and retard the operations of the North." 



* As it may affect the administration of justice, the name of this 
firm, which is now in existence, has been omitted ; but will doubtless 
appear in subsequent editions. — Editor. 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 49 

" But how can you supply both ?" asked I. 

" Easily enough," replied the merchant. "When I 
want to send a large quantity of uniforms South, they 
are made up into bales with a Federal uniform on the 
outside edges. They are then directed to Washington, 
by a certain route, and put on board the steamer. 
Should the steamer by chance stop at Norfolk, or be 
delaj'ed along the coast in that vicinity, or off' the point 
off" Maryland, that is not our fault ; and there, why, it 
is probable, the vessel might be boarded from some 
boat from the South sent out from the shore. Such 
being the case, the uniforms would be seized as con- 
traband of war and landed — we taking care that no re- 
sistance is offered to the boarders by the officers or 
crew of the vessel. Even if the articles be thus 
seized, we do not lose any thing as you are doubtless 
aware. It would be impossible for the whole coast to 
be so guarded as to prevent us thus landing the cargo ; 
and no suspicion can possibly fall upon us in the trans- 
action." 

I, at once, praised the scheme, when he added, 

"You therefore perceive that it would be impossible 
to execute such a plan unless we took a contract 
from the North ; or, under that, and our untar- 
nished reputation, we are enabled to carry out our con- 
tract with the South, in the manner I have just ex- 
plained." 

"But what could the South do with the Federal 
uniforms," I asked, innocently. 

" Clothe their spies," answered the merchant, with 
a smile at my want of acuteness. 

" Suppose, now," I remarked, "that Lincoln's myr- 
midons should find this out, what would be the result 
of the affair?" 

"Such result is beyond supposition," he answered. 
" Our loyalty is too well established to admit of doubt. 
Are not our names down on the subscription list of the 
Chamber of Commerce for a large sum to carry on the 



50 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

War against the South ; therefore could we be supposed 
for one moment to aid them. No, sir," he added, with 
a self-complacent smile," we could deny all knowl- 
edge of the goods, and our word would be quite suffi- 
cient." 

" Did you subscribe to that list the other day?" I 
asked, in a tone that betrayed my great surprise. 

"Certainly," he replied; " why not. I have made 
more than the amount in profits already on my con- 
tracts, North and South ; and before the war is ended 
— for a war will surely be the result of this affair — 
I shall have found the investment to have been a good 
one." 

" But will the South agree to it V I asked, 
quietly. 

"What will they care?" he answered, interrogative- 
ly ; " provided they get their supplies, and I can retard 
the delivery of those for the North." 

" How do you inform the South when goods are on 
any of your steamers for them?" was my next 
question. 

" If you ask direct questions, young man," said the 
Senior partner, " we must refuse to answer you, even 
in spite of your credentials. Suffice it to say, they 
know when the goods are on hand, and look out accord- 
ingly. Not one single bale of Southern goods has ever 
yet gone astray ; although several of those belonging 
to the Northern troops have fallen into the hands 
of our friends. I have a large order now in the 
house, only waiting shipment, and this will be done 
to-day." 

Satisfied on this score I broke up the converation — 
as it seemed evident that they were desirous of saying 
as little as possible — by presenting a draft upon them 
from one of the provisional officers of the Confederate 
Government. It was, without hesitation, instantly 
honored in gold ; although specie payments had been 
stopped at the banks for some time. 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 51 

"I have given you gold, sir," said the merchant, 
"because all our transactions with.the South are on a 
gold basis." 

From further conversation which I had with these gen- 
tlemen, I learned that a large amount of gold is lying at 
the present time in England, subject to the drafts of 
New York contractors, and that all merchants, doing 
an illicit trade with the South, would be able to rest 
assured of payment for the goods they might supply — 
the presentation of the bill of lading, to the Con- 
federate agent resident in New York, being sufficient 
evidence of the completion of the order — the South 
taking all risks of safe carriage and delivery. 

By this information I became convinced that the 
the South have well arranged their plans for the carry- 
ing on of a war — if such is to be found necessary — and 
that they had been attending to such matters for a 
long time. I had, some time since, found out how 
they had managed to sow discord among the people 
of the North; but little suspected they had taken 
such precautions as these. The North is far from 
being prepared for such a struggle, for the very men 
they trust will deceive them ; but the South has 
reliable agents everywhere, both in the Northern States 
and in Europe. 

Have not seen Booth for some days, nor that woman 
of his. It seeins to me likely they have gone South. 
Perhaps I might do better to remain here, and shall 
certainly do as long as it pays. 

[Here follows a calculation of figures, as if the writer 
had suddenly thought that the accounts between him 
and the South were not exactly squared up ; for, upon 
comparing the descriptions of the items of expenses 
with the foregoing diary, it is evident that the figures 
related, to some extent, to his movements for the 
Southern cause. Should this really be the case, John 
H. Surratt must have been in the habit of drawing a 
princely fortune, as an income, for his expenditure 



52 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

was of the most lavish character up to this date. The 
list of names from* whom he has apparently drawn 
largely, is also very interesting ; as it shows that a 
number of prominent merchants in New-York were 
acting as agents for the Southern Confederacy during 
the first year of the war. 

The subsequent entries during the month of May, 
with the exception of the allusion to Ellsworth's death, 
and also those for the first ten days of June, are of no 
interest to the reader, as they relate principally to 
family matters, and trivial events of his private life. 
The only value of these items is, to establish the 
genuineness of the whole document, as many of the 
matters, therein entered, are such as only one keeping 
a diary for his own personal convenience would be like 
to record. He alludes to remittances sent to his 
mother at different times, but gives no account of the 
purposes to which the sums thus sent were to be ap- 
plied. The items for traveling expenses, entered at 
different times, shew that he must have been moving 
about a great deal ; and the occasional entries of 
" Called on F. W.," ''Visited J. K.," "Presented letter 
to H. S.," and so on, indicate that he was not merely 
traveling for pleasure. Perhaps these initials may yet 
be explained, when the parties concerned will doubt- 
less be exposed, if they deserve exposure. 

It is rather unfortunate, for the contiuity of this 
diary, that the writer has omitted to name the places 
from which he dates his entries ; otherwise they might 
serve as a clue to guide a sharp detective to identify 
the numerous persons mentioned only by . initials. 
Even, as it is, there is but little doubt the Government 
prosecutor has, and still will use his best endeavors to 
find out the persons alluded to — if only to obtan their 
evidence in such matters as may give the slightest clue 
to the connection of the assassins with the late Rebel 
Government. It may be, however, that those names 
that are given plainly will suffice. — Editor.] 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 53 



CHAPTER VII. 

CURIOUS MATTERS CONCERNING THE EARLY BATTLES. 

June 12, 1861. — So the Yankees have been beaten in 
the first battle on Virginian soil. This might have 
been expected by them if they had only taken the 
matter into proper consideration. 

The South is fully prepared for War, and have best 
officers in the country ; while the North is both with- 
out officers, men or military education. If the South 
can only prevent the Yankees from advancing along 
upon Southern soil, there is no doubt but that France 
and England will recognize the Confederacy. One 
thing is certain the Yankees will not soon forget their 
reception at Big Bethel. 

June 15, 1861. — Ascertained to-day from M. W., at 
the War Department, that a movement is to be made 
upon Richmond very soon by way of Centerville and 
Manasses. The plan of operations has been submitted 
and is on file. He has provided me a copy of the plan ; 
and, if I get it, must manage in some way to forward 
or take it to Richmond. 

June 17, 1861. — Have received a copy of the pro- 
posed plan and shall start to-morrow for Richmond. 

Drew on R. F. for the necessary expenses. 

[A vacancy here takes place in the entries, as if 
the writer had placed his diary in some place of con- 
cealment, while making his intended trip to Rich- 
mond. — Editor.] 

June 26, 1861. — Not quite so easy to get to Rich- 
mond as in former times. What with military guards 
at different points along the coast, the gunboats patrol- 
ling the river, and the Confederate sharpshooters on 
the Virginia banks of the Potomac, I have run through 
such a gauntlet, as would have required almost a 
charmed life to have succeeded in escaping all the 



54 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OP 

dangers. But I am pretty well acquainted with all 
the by-paths, nooks and creeks of Lower Maryland 
and the Eastern Shore, and in spite of Military law, and 
sentinels. I have managed pretty well to get back safe 
to Surrattsville. 

It required a little ingenuity to get to the coast with- 
out exciting the suspicions of the guard stationed along 
the road ; but persons on such business as mine rarely 
follow traveled roads. But then, the K. G 0. hasa 
fine network of connections along to the Point ; and 
when the road was considered to be dangerous, I re- 
ceived full warning in time. 

By employing a few good, reliable agents, I managed 
to have fishing boats laying up the creeks on more 
than one point of the coast, so that, when compelled 
to forsake one of the proposed places of embarkation, 
I had others to which I could resort. Twice I narrow- 
ly escaped capture from a sentinel having been but re- 
cently located at a place that I had considered open ; 
but, by good luck, the dangers were in both cases 
avoided tn time. 

Having got safely on board the boat, two attempts 
were made to cross the river after sunset; but the 
brightness of the moon made everything on the river 
so clearly visible, that, had we pushed far into the 
stream, we should certainly have been discovered 
by those confounded patrol boats, or river police as it is 
called. 

Three nights since, we were favored with a murky 
sky, and this induced an attempt to cross the river. 
The moon had not risen when we started, and all along 
the "Silver Potomac" a deathlike stillness reigned, dis- 
turbed only by the sound of distant paddle wheels of 
the patrol boats. 

The darkness was favorable in one thing, but un- 
favorable in another ; for we could not see which way 
to steer our little vessel. We were fearful of running 
against the police steamers, or Potomac flotilla, which 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 55 

might be lying at anchor in the stream ; and this 
would certainly have resulted in my capture. We 
might also, by the variation of a point, make our way 
out sea, instead of across to Virginia ; and this would 
have produced no very pleasing result. And if we got 
safely across, as it was too murky to see a signal, we 
stood a chance of being fired upon by our friends in 
the batteries ; and, perhaps, a stray shot might pick us 
off. Danger everywhere. 

" Those who would pass here, must face both fire 
and steel." 

I had not forgotten those important words, and was, 
of course, ready to do so ; and, therefore, gave the order 
to push across at any risk. 

When we reached about the midway of the river, the 
rising moon began to whiten the clouds, causing a kind 
of twilight, more confusing than darkness. We could 
see nothing ten yards beyond the head of the boat. 
Still we pushed on, and soon began to perceive by the 
soundings that we were nearing the shore. 

A flash, followed by a report, was the next thing 
observable ; but whether from the shore or police boat 
we could not then determine. This want of knowl- 
edge prevented me from showing my signal light, and 
the next minute, another flash, report, and something 
heavy dropped into the water, not far from where we 
were. 

" Too good an aim," thought I, " to be either pleas- 
ant or agreeable." 

The rowers in the boat, having no such inducements 
as I had to risk their lives, began to grumble about 
the danger they were running and wished to turn back. I 
endeavored to show them that there was as much dan- 
ger in going backward as forward ; but they did not 
seem to approve of my logic. 

A third flash, report and a bouncing object in the 
water next ensued ; and, almost before the souud 
passed away, a flash appeared behind us, followed also 



56 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OP 

by a shot and report. We were between two fires, and 
the danger was imminent. 

Securing my papers, so as to be ready to throw them 
at any moment into the river, I determined to risk the 
chances and display my signal light in the direction 
whence the first gun was fired. In a moment the light 
flashed over the water in the manner agreed upon be- 
tween the order both North and South. An answer 
was quickly returned ; but, through the mist, it was 
only discernable by the peculiar motion made by the 
light, and not by its color. 

The signals had not been seen by the vessel in the 
river — at least we judged so by the fact that no more 
shots were fired from behind us ; but we heard the 
sound of paddlewheels, as if the captain of the steamer 
was resolved to risk the venture of running ashore, in 
the hope of effecting our capture — for we had no doubt 
but that our design in crossing the river was more than 
we suspected. 

We could plainly hear the rattle of the wheels, as 
the steamer drew nearer, and I urged the rowers to use 
their endeavors in the attempt to gain the shore as 
speedily as possible. They answered only by a renewal 
of their utmost exertions. 

It was now on our part a race for life and liberty, 
with the dread of death and capture ; while honor 
and perhaps, as they believed, prize money, offered 
a strong inducement to the officers and men of the 
steamer. 

We could hear that the steam on the vessel had been 
increased, as the revolutions of the wheels were plain- 
ly more rapid each time. 

"Row quicker, boys." I replied, "It is either the 
shore or a prison for all of us." 

" You'se jes right, mass', " replied one of them, " and 
dat's what dis chile tort all 'long." 

Quicker and still quicker flew the boat across the 
water; but we could hear that the steamer was gain- 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 57 

ing on us. It was a question of very close calculation 
whether the strong arms of the rowers would, by their 
exertions, enable our little bark to outstrip the steam- 
propelled, yet bulky steamer, or not. 

"Row, boys, row faster," said I, anxiously. "A 
twenty-dollar gold piece to each of you if we escape 
the steamer." 

The offer of reward, and fear of capture, made the 
rowers still further increase their exertions, and in 
about five minutes I was pleased to hear the keel 
of the boat grating along the beach. ."We were 
ashore. 

Without stopping to consider where I should alight 
I sprang from the boat, fortunately on dry land , and 
the next moment was saluted by a sentry with the usual 
cry of 

" Who goes there ?" 

My reply was promptly given, and an officer was 
sent for, who happened to be acquainted with the 
signs agreed upon between the Knights. He was one 
of us. 

In a few moments a flash and report came from the 
battery near by, and a shot made its way across the 
water in the direction of the sound of the approaching 
wheels. A rattling reply followed, and a number of 
musket balls flew around us, but without causing any 
injury to either of the party present. 

The two rowers rushed up the bank, in perfect fright 
and terror ; but in spite of this, they did not forget to 
ask for the twenty-dollar gold pieces I had promised 
them, and which they of course received. 

An engagement then ensued between the battery 
and the steamer, and, finding it safer to be out of 
range, I withdrew from the line of fire, aod prepared 
to make my way to the Capital, at Richmond, where I 
expected to meet with a good welcome. 

The means was provided for me to reach Fredericks- 
burg, at which point I was enabled to get upon the cars, 



58 THE DIAKT AND JOURNAL OP 

bound for the city of Richmond, the Capital of the 
Confederate States. 

[The diary does not give any account of what trans- 
pired during this visit, nor with whom the interview was 
held ; neither does it state by what means he regained the 
Maryland shore. From this silence it may easily be sup- 
posed that but little danger was experienced in recros- 
sing, and that he returned by the same route. The Re- 
cords of the Rebellion mention an engagement about 
this time between a Confederate Battery and U. S. 
Steamer near the the Rappahannock river, and this was 
doubtless the very engagement thus alluded to by John 
H. Surratt. — Editor.] 



CHAPTER VIII. 

THE "BULL RUN" PANIC EXPLAINED. 

July 21, 1861, Midnight — So the vaunted boasts of 
the Yankees have proved to be mere empty brag. 
The advance movement is checked — that is, the Yankee 
Army that was to have marched triumphantly " on to 
Richmond," have discovered that Washington is a far 
safer place. The followers of the Patriarch have found 
a Jordan that is not so easily crossed as in the time of 
Moses. The children of Abraham could find no 
Joshua to lead them to a promised land. What with 
the information General Beauregard had received of 
the proposed movements, and the success of our plans 
in creating a panic among the Yankees, it is no wonder 
that the South gained the day. 

How finely has the order spread its members among 
the ranks of the Yankee army, fastened itself on the 
staffs of leading officers, obtained various commands 
in the different divisions, from the field officer to the 



59 

simple corporal, and so have been able to spread dis- 
may throughout the whole army. So well have they 
managed to excite alarm among the men, that the 
simple mention of a "masked battery" will make 
a Yankee's hair stand on end ; and the cry of the 
" Black Horse Cavalry are coming," will make a regi- 
ment run. 

It was no easy task to work upon the feelings of 
these Yankee soldiers, and has required weeks of 
cautious and incessant labor to accomplish it. But 
when the proper amount of dread was instilled into 
their minds, the slightest word of alarm was enough to 
effect the whole of the fighting forces. 

By the skillful agency of Captain M , one of the 

best fighting regiments was put into disorder, and 
then, when the cry of " the Black Horse Cavalry are 
coming " was raised, they fled like sheep — he declar- 
ing, as the men were making their way back at a 
quicker rate than "double," 

"The South deserve their independence, for they 
won it bravely." 

Through the agency of one of the order, holding a 
high position in the War Department, the chief com- 
mands were given to our sworn friends ; and, as a 
natural consequence, when they could have easily won 
the day, a movement purposely misdirected, an order 
not understood and therefore disobeyed, and a retreat 
ordered at a moment when by an advance a victory 
might have been gained, secured the triumph for the 

South. Colonel fi M might have done a great 

deal to prevent the panic of to-day ; but then he knew 
it would not be for our interest. And when he failed 
to give the proper support at the exact time of its 
usefulness, those who had borne the worst part of the 
struggle began to despair of success, and became panic- 
stricken. The consequence is, that the Yankee army 
is now a broken mass, or rather a mob ; and should 
the brave boys of the South only advance to-night 



60 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

on this city of Washington, they would find no material 
obstacle in the way of making an easy capture. 
But if they neglect this opportunity, they will never 
get another. 

How well the rumor was circulated that Winchester 
was impregnably fortified, thus causing the officers of 
the " left wing " — as it is called — of the army to refrain 
from making an attack. Such is the dread now felt of 
batteries — both masked and plain — that not one single 
regiment would dare to advance upon them. So well 
do I believe has the feeling of alarm been spread abroad, 
that the troops now forming the Northern army will 
never again take the field. 

July 22, 1862. — The whole army is back, under the 
protection of the defences of Washingtom, and many 
of the regiments are without an organization. The 
whole force is demoralized, and would not make an 
hour's stand against the advance of a good army. I 
have already sent a pigeon off with the news, but the 
chances are that before the Confederates make a for- 
ward movement, the morale — a fine word of Scott's — of 
the Yankees will be restored. 

I have just heard that the militia forces are to be 
sent back to their various homes, and their places sup- 
plied by regularly enlisted volunteer troops, who are 
to be properly trained, before any other forward move- 
ment is to be made. This will take a long time, and 
now I must proceed to work, to help the Knights with 
their new employment — that of preventing and retard- 
ing, as, much as possible, the enlistment of these three- 
year volunteers. 

Eeceived to-day a notification, from the Central 
Headquarters of the K. C. G., to endeavor when pos- 
sible to obtain commissions for Knights in the newly 
organized regiments of volunteers. The circular has 
this clause, which I think valuable enough to transcribe 
for future reference : 

" If we can do nothing else, our influence should be 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 61 

so brought to bear, upon such official authorities 
within reach, that shall secure, when possible, the ap- 
pointment of such officers to the command of regi- 
ments as shall be beneficial instead of detrimental to 
our interests." 

July 23, 1861. — The enlistment furore greater than 
ever ; but to some extent hindered by the concerted 
action of the Knights, whose slight words of encour- 
agement have been so artfully uttered that, while 
appearing to favor the movement and support the 
efforts of the Federal Government to obtain volunteers, 
have really caused many who were ready and anxious 
to join the army to re-consider their action, and in 
several cases to withdraw altogether. In New York 
City, Philadelphia and Boston, this plan has worked with 
great perfection ; but caution is required here, in con- 
sequence of the existence and exercise of Martial Law. 

July 25, 1851. — Met to-day in Pennsylvania Avenue, 
two noted politicians of New York, well known to 
have publicly favored the cause of the South, and who 
have recently been appointed colonels of New York 
regiments. They not only belong to us, bnt have in- 
formed me that every officer under them is a member 
of the K. G. C. Of course, they do not intend to fight 
against the South ; only entered the military service 
to divert suspicion from their former actions ; and in- 
tend, on the first opportunity, when their commands 
shall be ordered to the front, to give to the Confederates 
all the information of plans, movements, &c, that may 
be beneficial to the Southern cause. 

" If," said one of them to me, " any of our com- 
mands should desert to the enemy, it would be very 
difficult to prevent it on a dark night.' ' 

" Yes," added the other, less cautious, from the fact 
that law had not been so much practised by him, ex- 
cept in breach, " and if the whole regiment should 
suddenly resolve to inarch over, armed and equipped, 
to the South, how could we prevent it V* 



62 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

As I listened to them, I thought that James and 
John were great disciples, and would readily follow the 
divine instructions of their Master. 

[The diary here becomes very explicit with regard 
to the names of several who held important commands 
in the army, and who were connected with the 
K. Gr. C. On reference to the Army Registers of the 
States and Regular Service, it appears that many of 
these very officers were either tried by Court Martial 
and disgraced, or were dismissed the service without 
trial. Want of space prevents the publication of the 
names in this edition. — Editor.] 



CHAPTER IX. 

THE ELECTION OF 1862. 

[During the remainder of the year 1861, and the 
first ten months of 1862, but little matter of general 
interest is entered in the Diary, with the exception of 
his record of leaving college, and the sensation he there 
caused at the time ; allusions to the movements of 
troops, and engagements of the contending forces ; com- 
ments upon the feelings of the people ; the preliminary 
proclamation for setting all the slaves in the South 
free, &c, &c. Entries under different dates show how 
the K. Gr. C. were operating in order to secure the 
nomination of members to the various State offices 
throughout the North, and each success is duly re- 
corded. Had the Diary but been discovered during 
the existence of the Rebellion and of Martial Law, 
there is but little doubt that several persons, who now 
enjoy their liberty with honor, would have been in- 
mates of the military prisons throughout the country. 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 63 

This discovery might have saved the lives of m any- 
brave men, who fell on the field of battle, and would 
have perhaps prevented the fearful deed for which the 
criminal is now about to be tried ; but the believers in 
destiny would, perhaps, assert that it was never in- 
tended that the book should be brought to light until 
some great work had been accomplished. What that 
work was, or has been, is for them to decide, not for 
the editor of this volume. 

Whenever it has been considered best to leave out 
any of the entries, it has been done wholly with the 
view to save space in this little volume, not with the 
intention of shielding any one from public censure. 
The Courts of Justice will doubtless have all the facts 
made known in due time, even should it not be con- 
sidered judicious to publish the Diary complete with 
all its details. — Editor.] 

November 1, 1862. — We may consider ourselves sure 
of the elections in the North this time, thanks to the 
perseverence of our friends ; but the recent pretended 
exposures of our body is having a damaging effect, and 
placing people on their guard against strangers. The 
order of the Government, making it a punishable 
offence to discourage enlistments, interferes seriously 
with our operations with the volunteers. We have, 
however succeeded in changing the furious war feeling 
of the Americans themselves, and now the Govern- 
ment has to resort to foreign countries to help to fill 
up their required quotas of troops. If we can but secure 
the elections this month, we may be sure that no very 
strong efforts will be made by the individual States to 
supply the troops ; and then look out for trouble in 
the North. 

November 4, 1862. — Victory ! A greater one than 
all the battles that have been fought. The elections 
have all gone in favor of the Southern party. The 
people are tired of the war, and are crying out 
for peace. Some of the newly-elected Governors, 



64 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OP 

especially , are pledged to hinder the forwarding of 

troops, and only to do so when compelled by the 
Federal Government. A draft is the only way that the 
latter can compel the service of the citizens, and then 
look out for trouble, for we have our plans all arranged 
under such circumstances. 

November 6, 1862. — General McClellan removed from 
command. Bad, very bad for us. 

November 8, 1862. — The Government seems resolved 
to revenge their losses at the elections, by retaliating 
on all pro-slavery officers in the army. Several have 
been removed from their positions, and more than 
one has been ordered before a Court Martial. Our 
power to prevent this is worse than weak — we are, 
in fact, powerless now. 

November 16, 1862. — So Lincoln has turned religious 
as well as an autocrat. The army are to go to prayer 
at his command. He assumes to be at the head of the 
Church as well as the Divided States. Well ! We 
shall see how it will work. 

November 18, 1862. — Have just received news from 
Richmond that President Davis intends to practice re- 
taliation. He has proclaimed that if General McKiell 
is not given up, he will hang ten prisoners. That is 
the only way now. What does he intend to do with 
Butler ? 

[As this proclamation of Jefferson Davis was dated 
in Richmond on November 17, this shows clearly that 
Surratt must have had a much more open com- 
munication with the Rebel Government than could 
be obtained by even the officers of the U. S. Army. 

The remainder of the entries for this month are 
merely records of the movements of the army towards 
Fredericksburg, and personal remarks on the prospects 
of a battle. He also alludes to the hopes the people of 
the South had in the effect that will be created by the 
operations of the Confederate cruiser " 290 " or 
Alabama. The dates under which all the various 



( JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 65 

entries are made would show that he must have had 
secret information of these facts, as they were unknown 
at the time to the general public. — Editor.] 

December 15, 1862. — The invincible Army of the 
Potomac has been beaten again. Once more our 
schemes are working well. It was not accident that 
caused a certain order to go astray, and the result 

has justified the means. Brother did well in that 

affair. 

I wonder how the merchants of New York like the 
Alabama now? Perhaps a few repetitions of such 
doings as have just been reported will cool their en- 
thusiasm for carrying on the war. The California 
steamer was a good prize. 

The people look gloomy over the affair at Fredericks- 
burg. They will look worse before the year is out. 
The South has been apprised of all the intended move- 
ments of this present campaign season, and if they are 
not all defeated it is because the Confederate army 
has not the necessary strength. Grant's proposed move- 
ment will fail without doubt. Our Order can and will 
defeat that before a week is over. Rosencrans' move- 
ment will not succeed either. 

[As this entry was apparently made several days 
before the reverses took place, it is plainly shown that 
even the supposed secrets of the army were known to 
its enemies long before they were developed, and all 
movements were thus promptly met and checked. 
The surrender of Holly Spring took place on December 
19, and the repulse at Haines Bluff on December 27. 
The disastrous battle of Murfreesboro took place on 
December 29, 30, 31 ; whereas this entry is all under 
the date of December 15. How did he gain his infor- 
mation ? This is one of the most important questions 
to have decided — Editor.] 

December 16, 1862. — Congress is having somewhat of 
a hard time of it, or rather, the Government party find 
that much dissatisfaction exists throughout the North 



66 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

as to their conduct. I wonder whether the American 
autocrat really intends to proclaim the slaves free on 
New Year's day. If so, the war will be carried on in 
a very blood-thirsty manner. The South will not 
submit to any such measures ; and, as that course 
would ruin the planters, there is very little doubt but 
that a fearful and bloody retaliation will fall on the 
heads of those who attempt to carry it out. Booth 
told me to-day that, should such a measure be proclaim- 
ed, the life of him who proposed it would be in great 
danger. But latterly that man has become very 
vapory, and often repeats his Shakspearian quotation 
about a the Ephesian dome," &c. Still it is not the first 
time he has proposed to me to remove the despot by 
some violent means. But how ? 

[It will be seen that the foul deed of assassination 
had long been contemplated, and that, up to this time, 
the keeper of this Diary had looked upon it as a 
visionary idea ; but that the poison had been instilled, 
and was now beginning to have effect, is very evident. 
Still there is no proof to be gathered from this re- 
cord that, up to this time, Surratt had really resolved 
upon anything so desperate as a cold-blooded murder ; 
although his constant acquaintance with Booth, his 
love of money, and his greed for notoriety might have 
engendered thoughts in his brain which, during calmer 
moments, he would not only have discarded but ut- 
terly repudiated. That aught like true patriotism for 
the South existed within his breast is really to be 
doubted — his predominating passion, as expressed in 
his diary, being money — Editor.] 

December 18, 1862. — I start for Eichniond to-morrow. 

[There are no more entries in the Diary under the 
year 1862, which doubtless shows that he must have 
been away from home during that interval. — Editor.] 

January 1, 1863. — The decree has been issued ; the 
freedom of the slaves proclaimed. Abraham Lincoln ! 
thy days are numbered ! 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 67 



CHAPTER X. 

AFTER THE RESOLVE. 

January 13, 1863. — Have had some conversation 
with Booth on the subject that so much interests us. 
He is crazy on that idea, and will make some rash at- 
tempt that will ruin all, unless he be diverted from his 
purpose. I do not like his fanatical fondness for that 
woman. She is leading him to his ruin, either one way 
or the other. 

By the way I have made the acquaintance of as pretty 
a pioce of muslin as can be found. I reckon she has 

taken a fancy to me, and if that fellow St. M will 

only keep out of the way, there will be but little doubt 
of success. But I will not be such a fool as Booth. 
She shall never know my secrets. Good or bad, the 
best confidante is one's own breast. 

January 14, 1863. — Saw Booth again to-day. He 
is wild on this new idea of his ; and appears deter- 
mined to venture something, no matter at what risk, 
in order to secure fame. They say he is a descend- 
ant of the famous Jacobin, John Wilkes : and, if so 
there will be but little doubt that he will be cour- 
ageous enough to carry out'the most impossible scheme. 
I do not believe he cares for either god or devil 
when bent upon a certain idea: if there is a mere 
shadow of success in the future he will pursue it, even 
to his own destruction. Impulsive in all things, he 
lets his feelings, not his reason, guide his actions ; and, 
oftimes, by this very impulse, not only endangers him- 
self, but the welfare of his best friend or relative. 
He cares little for money — it is all fame with him. 
Fame ? Bah ! What is it worth? Give me the gold. 
A man with plenty of gold can buy fame ; without it, 
he may strive and struggle, and will die unknown, no 
matter what his talent may be. What is fame worth ? 



68 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

If living, perhaps it may gain a few dollars; if dead, 
nothing, — for he will soon be forgotten in this change- 
able world. Booth's famous quotation shows his mind : 

" The daring youth who fired the Ephesian doom i ryv -** 
Outshines in fame the pious fool who raised it." * 

He says these lines are Shakspeare's ; but I do not 
find them in any of the editions in the libraries. I do 
not know what possessed me to look for the quota- 
tion ; but Booth has repeated it so often, that I could 
not resist the desire to search it out. I wonder whence 
Booth really got the lines. But it is of no value to me 
to know ; it will bring no money to my purse. I 
have spoken to Booth, at times, about the necessity 
of getting plenty of money for doing such dangerous 
work, 

"''Tis trash,' " said he, contemptuously, Ui some- 
thing, nothing.' Who would barter fame for money? 
Not I ! Give me a fame that exists when money has 
perished." 

He may think himself right ; but give me money. 
With it, distance is nothing — it can be overcome; 
justice's eyes, said to be bandaged, can be completely 
blinded ; and the most difficult scheme can be carried 
out. Money is all potent ; it is everything ! Let me 
but have money, and I will defy the law and even the 
world's opinion. I have no fear of the law if I have 
but money. The most upright Judge can be bought, 
for " every man has his price ;" and if I have but 
money, the officers of the law might be within a yard 
of my place of concealment, and yet I should never be 
found. The world's opinion is always guided by the 



* These lines are ascribed by many to Shakspeare ; but, as is writ- 
ten in the Diary, they are not to be found in any of the orginal edi- 
tions of that author's work. It is more than likely that they are an 
interpolation of the noted Colley Cibber, who arranged several plays 
for the stage. — Editor. 



JOHN H. SURKATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 69 

length of a man's purse, and the solidity of its contents. 
If a man be poor, he is at once criminal, no matter how 
innocent he may be; if rich, he may be as guilty as 
Satan, his well lined coffers will alter the " opinion" 
of his character. Such is the world ! The con- 
tractor who robs the Government, and murders 
the poor soldier by means of polluted stores, is a 
gentleman — because he has made money. The honest 
man, steadily pursuing his onward course in search of 
fame, is guilty of anything of which his detractors 
my accuse him. Why? He has no money ! 

But, pshaw ! I am turning moralist. As that is 
the case, it is time I ceased writing in my diary. 

January 15, 1863. — Met to-day, in Washington, one 

of my old College mates, L. I. W . I wonder 

whether he is to be trusted ; if he is, perhaps, some- 
time or the other, he may be useful. He once seemed 
to be in favor of the Southern cause, and I believe 
still is. What times we used to have at College to- 
gether. But, then, it is not wise to trust too many 
with our secret. Booth makes too many friends, and 
that is his weakness. We shall certainly want assis- 
tance ; but it must be from those of whom there 

can be no doubt. In gaining such friends, as W , 

and in their securing their co-operation, it will be far 
better that they know nothing of what is really in- 
tended. I have heard it said, that an innocent boy can 
pass a counterfeit bill better than those who have 
been engaged in the making of them. Therefore, 
I believe it the best to keep all those, who are not 
to take an active part in the affair, in perfect ignorance 
of the object intended. Perhaps it will be well to tell 

Booth of this idea ; for in this way such persons as W 

may be induced to do more, and perhaps with greater 
success, than if they were made fully acquainted with 
all our secrets. 

I wish Mother would move into Washington. We 
could there operate better. My constant going in 



70 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

and out of the city may excite suspicion some day. 
Besides they are getting cautious, and the sentinels 
question a little too closely after dark. 

It is true, that I am pretty well known ; but if we 
resided there, my moving about would not be consid- 
ered so strange, and I could learn more. Perhaps, a 
little persuasion might induce her to adopt this 
course. 

[It seems, by the foregoing, that Surratt was in the 
habit of writing his thoughts as they occurred, for many 
of his entries are more like reflections than a mere re- 
cord of events. As he doubtless often wrote essays at 
College, that exercise gave him this habit, which in 
this case makes his diary far more valuable to the 
general reader. — Editor.] 

January 16, 1863. — Spoke to mother to-day on the 
subject. She seems willing. Talks about opening a 
boarding-house. Says that she will have no Yankees 
to live with her. Seems to have some new idea in her 
mind, but will not tell what it is. Talks a great deal 
about the success of the Southern cause. Perhaps, she 

is planning something since she saw Mrs. S from 

Richmond. It has been arranged that I shall carry 
dispatches between that city and Canada. Well ! If 
it pay me, perhaps I might do. worse. They must 
have some means of communication ; and, as the 
coasts are blockaded, and the Yankee army keeps 
almost every known road closed up, it will require 
some one who knows the unfrequented paths to do 
the work. Mrs. S says they are beginning to re- 
fuse passes by way of Fortress Monroe ; and, since M. 
W. was removed from the War Department, it is diffi- 
cult to get any to go back through the lines. If I un- 
dertake the work — and none I know of can do it 
better — the Confederate authorities must pay well for 
my services. Since the Abolition Proclamation, I 
find it more difficult than ever to persuade people 
against the Federal Government ; although we have 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 71 

so worked upon their minds that is not so easy for 
them now to get volunteers as formerly, even at a high 
price as a bounty. 

There is a great talk about a draft. Let Abraham I. 
only try it, and then we shall be able to do some- 
thing again. While troops are gained without force, 
the people do not seem to care ; but if they only at- 
tempt to make any of them go against their will, then 
will be the time to raise up the masses against the 
Government. The plans are all arranged. 

[The date of this entry is in January, and is inter- 
esting when compared with subsequent events. — 
Editor.] 

January 20, 1863. — Lincoln seems determined to 
carry out his Abolition policy. What was considered 
a crime in John Brown, and for which the old fanatic 
was hung with the calm approval of the North, is now 
being esteemed a rare virtue — why ? Because he only 
attempted to free a few niggers, and Lincoln is making 
a wholesale job of the matter. Strange that vice 
should become a virtue, because more are engaged in 
it. But to kill a single man, makes the doer of it a 
murderer ; to kill thousands, a hero. But such it is, 
and ever will be. 

Our order is getting less powerful throughout the 
North. Perhaps this arises from the number that have 
gone South to join the Confederate service ; and per- 
haps it is caused by the recent exposures which have 
made some afraid. The northern spies have done us 
a great deal of mischief; but yet we are not quite 
broken up. There is yet work for the daring to per- 
form. 

[For the next few months the entries are of a trifling 
character as connected with the operations of the win- 
ter; and it would almost appear as if he had not been en- 
gaged in anything that was considered worth record- 
ing. Occasionally there is a break between the dates, 
and an interval of several days in the record, as if the 



72 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

writer was absent during the time ; but the diary gives 
no clue as to his movements or operations. The 
proper authorities may perhaps be enabled to find out 
those facts at the right time. — Editor. 



CHAPTEE XL 

THE RIOT IN NEW YORK, 

June 6, 1863. — After a great deal of trouble, we 
have contrived to excite a feeling among the Northern 
editors about the despotic rule over the Press. At 
first they refused to take any notice of the sugges- 
tions ; but the remarks, that were made at the time of 
the visit, have not been idly spoken. They are ripen- 
ing now into good fruit, and there is to be a meeting 

of the Press to see what can be done. of the New 

York says that if some united course can be agreed 

upon, the Government will have to yield. 

June 9, 1863. — The meeting has been held in New 
York. Could not learn what they have resolved to do. 
Latterly our friends have had to be very cautious, 
otherwise they would lose their situations in the various 
affices. Our cypher dispatches are all stopped in the 
telegraph offices, no matter how skillfully written. 
The mails are not secure, and even private messengers 
are closely watched by the Government spies. But 

for in the New York office, one of my despatches to 

would have been seized, and then what a discovery 

would have been made, since they have found out the 
key. It is my firm opinion that one of our party has 
turned traitor ; if so, and he should be found out, his 
life would not be worth much. Fortunately, only the 
tried and faithful know the plans now on foot, and no- 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 73 

papers have passed likely to lead to a discovery of the 
facts. 

June 10, 1863. from Fortress Monroe has been 

here to-day, and held a consultation with of New- 
York. The latter takes on papers to that city to cer- 
tain parties there. As both move with a semi-official 
character, no one would suspect them of being bearers 
of despatches from Richmond. Even the Government 
detectives are at fault this time. 

[Here another interval in the dates takes place, but 
is explained by the next entry. — Editor.] 

June 23, 1863. — How excited they are in Richmond 
now. I saw B there, and he says that the move- 
ments now taking place will secure a victory without 
chance of failure, if those in the North will only do 
their duty. He little knows how our movements are 
trammelled, since the spy system was instituted. 

June 24, 1863. — Received a message to-day from 
Richmond. Must go to Baltimore* to see Booth, and 
then off to New York. There is work before us 
now. 

[Another interval in the record here takes place. — 
Editor.] 

July 3, 1863. — Had arranged everything in a manner 
that could not fail, as the militia had been sent away; 

but Mrs. told me that said the Government had 

been warned, and were prepared. The advance on 
Gettysburg would have made the opportunity a splen- 
did one. Mrs. told me plainly that I was suspect- 
ed and watched ; if so, it will be dangerous to go on 
again at present to New York, as the police are on the 
look-out for every person that is in any way doubted. 
How it is that she has escaped so long I cannot make 
out ; but she lives in a very secluded place, and the 
family of an army officer occupies part of the house. 
None but those acquainted with her would suppose so 
quiet and secluded a person could be engaged in any 
scheme against the Government. She will be a 



74 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OP 

valuable agent by-and-by, as indeed she now is in 
minor matters. 

July 4, 1863. — Great rejoicing about the victory. 
Perhaps they may have cause for sorrow yet. If 
Vicksburg is lost, the South will, never will be able to 
rally against such disasters. 

July 7, 1863. — Vicksburg is lost, and many in whom 
we have had faith for co-operation have become faint- 
hearted. If all else fail ; then the South must be 
avenged. 

July 8, 1863. — There is to be a draft in Few York, 

and the people are greatly opposed to it. Mrs. sent 

a messenger to me to ask if the former plan should be 
carried out if an opportunity served, and to telegraph, 
as she had agents waiting. 

No time to visit Richmond, and after consultation 
with Booth and answered in the affirmative, but re- 
commended the greatest caution. 

July 9, 1863. — Visited Baltimore to-day and sent on 
fifty men to New York. Had great difficulty to get 
them out of the city in consequence of the martial 
law. All suspected persons were refused passes, there- 
fore our best men will be absent. By taking different 
tickets, some for Boston, Philadelphia, Trenton, New 
York, New Haven and other places, they were all en- 
abled to leave the city without suspicion. Provided 
them with the means to purchase other tickets at the 
places where they stop. The first draft takes place on 
Saturday, so they will have plenty of time ; and when 
they get to New York, they are to scatter themselves 
among the poorer classes throughout the city. The 
militia are still absent chasing up Lee. They will 
never catch him. He will be in Virginia again before 
two days are over. 

July 11, 1863. — Draft commenced to-day in New 
York. The men have all arrived. Mrs. tele- 
graphed that "they have got work." All right. 
There is no chance for similar operations here. Have 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 75 

tried Philadelphia and Chicago ; but both will fail un- 
less New York succeeds. Arrangements have been 
made in those places, and they have only to get the sig- 
nal from New York to begin work in earnest. 

July 12, 1863. — Mr. of the Washington Chronicle 

says there is a great feeling in New York in opposition 
to the draft. All appears to work well. 

July 13, 1863. — The work has commenced in earnest. 
The city of New York is in a state of riot. All the 
wires have been cut, and news has to be brought some 
miles to be sent on here. Philadelphia is disturbed, 
but the authorities have had time enough to get ready 
before aDything effectual could be accomplished. Have 
not heard from Chicago. 

July 14, 1863. — Could get nothing decisive from 
New York about today's proceedings. The New York 
papers are full of yesterday's affair. From the contra- 
dictory reports therein it would seem as if the authori- 
ties were paralyzed ; if so, all will work well. 

July 15, 1863. — Bad management. Where could 

have been. He was to have taken the lead in the affair 
at New York. As it is, there has been no organiza- 
tion in the matter, and the best laid plan has failed. 
The Government have ordered on a number of Regu- 
lars to New York, and the militia are also returning. 
In Chicago the whole thing failed, and in Philadelphia 
it was no better. Trusting to others, and this is the 
result. But my part has been well attended to, and 
therefore no blame can rest on me. This failure may 
ruin all. 

[From this entry onward there seems, for a time, to 
have been no regular record kept, as if he had given up 
all idea of carrying on a diary. Even his heretofore care- 
ful notes of army operations were neglected ; perhaps, 
disheartened at the constant reverses of the South, he 
had resolved to keep no account of them. His former 
entries of army movements ^-noke very sparingly of re- 
verses, and brilliantly of successes of the Confeder- 



76 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

ates ; but after this date, the movements generally men- 
tioned are those of Mosby, Morgan and other guerril- 
las. He praises the skill of Morgan in crossing the 
Ohio river; but condemns him for allowing his forces 
to be captured. He also blames Toombs for betraying 
the poor condition of the Confederate Treasury. Un- 
der date of Nov. 28, 1863, he records the escape of 
Morgan from the Ohio Penitentiary, but makes no 
further remarks. In fact the diary for about twelve 
months is both dull and uninteresting to any one but 
himself. — Editor.] 



CHAPTEE Xn. 



PLOTS AND PLOTTERS, ETO. 



July 4, 1864.— The North— The cruel, blood-thirsty 
North — will find that in spite of all its boasts and 
glorifyings, the South is not yet dead. Lincoln may 
advance his Hessian troops on every side ; but still he 
will find a determined foe. It may take strongholds 
and capture cities ; but that does not end the war. 
While there is a man in the South, that man will fight. 
They will not conquer the South, much as they may 
rejoice to-day. We have yet a hope that the Demo- 
cratic party of the North will do us justice, and, in the 
coming election, show Abraham Lincoln that his usur- 
pation and despotism is displeasing to the people. 
The gallant men in the Shenandoah Valley are already 
advancing, and once more will occupy the soil on the 
north of the Potomac. Already is Mosby across, 
and he will not return without inflicting some 
injury on the Yankees. Let him but advance on 
Washington, he will find true friends to welcome him 
here. 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 77 

[From this date he regularly records the movements 
of the Confederate forces, the defeat of Wallace at the 
Monocacy, the plundering operations of Mosby's band, 
the capture of Winchester by Ewell, and other affairs 
which are now matters of military history. He regrets, 
on one occasion, that the military rule in Washington 
had prevented him from giving some information — 
what he does not state — to certain parties in New York, 
by which means he had hoped to have given aid to those 
who were then threatening the capital. He glories 
over the capture of General Franklin, but blames the 
raiders for letting him escape after having so valuable 
a prize in their hands. He speaks in glowing terms of 
the schemes that were being put into practice by a Dr. 
B., asserting that they would create more destruction 
among the Union troops than the bullets of the Con- 
federates. As nothing further is said about the doctor, 
it can only be surmised that he refers to the dastardly 
yellow-fever plot that created such destruction in 
Newbern, and was to have spread also throughout 
Washington. He praises the gallantry of the raiders, 
and also records in glowing terms their escape, and 
subsequent operations in the Shenandoah Valley ; but 
when he hears of Farragut's success at Mobile, 
although not then confirmed, and records the ap- 
pointment of General Sheridan to the command of 
"the valley," together with the arrival of fresh troops, 
he does so in language that indicates a disheartened 
feeling, and looks upon the latter as " worse than a 
failure." This brings the diary down to August 7, 
1861.— Editor.]' 

August 8, 1864. — Have heard from City Point. Tom, 

who enlisted in the regiment, writes that he will 

do some good work to-morrow. Says it may cost him 
his life ; but hopes to " send Grant and his staff to h — ." 
That would be a victory indeed. 

August 9, 1864. — No news from Tom to-day. 

August 10, 1864. — Tom succeeded in blowing up the 



78 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

boat yesterday ; but perished himself in the attempt. 
Grant and the rest all escaped. It was a bold at- 
tempt ; but the fuse was too short, and the explosion 
premature. All our best schemes fail lately. It looks 
like a fatality. Hope the Canada movement will do 
better. 

August 12, 1864. — Failed again. The movement 
from Canada has not been well carried out. Surely 
that could have been successful. Everything goes 
wrong now. 

[The entries under dates between August 13 and 
August 23, are merely records of current events, and 
a statement that he had visited Richmond ; but 
no remark is made as to the object of that visit. The 
next important record is the following : Editor.] 

August 29, 1864. — McClellan and Pendleton are 
nominated. Should they be elected, it would be 
worth a dozen victories, and would repay for the loss 
of Yicksburg and Chattanooga. And if McClellan 
fails to aid the South, he can easily be put out of the 
way to make room for Pendleton. Now is the time for 
the order to work and secure their election. 

August 30, 1864. — Received a dispatch to-day from 
Canada. Should have started but was warned to be 
cautious. Shall leave to-morrow. 

[Here one of those breaks that we have before 
noticed takes place in the Diary, and is explained by 
subsequent entries. — Editor.] 

September 6, 1864. — Have learned something this 
trip at any rate ; and, if only successful, we will bring 
the war home to the hearths of the Northerners, and 
cause them to feel a little of what the South has suf- 
fered. The cities of Boston, Philadelphia and New 
York are to be burned ; a raid is to be made from 
Canada upon the shipping of the lakes, and a force of 
men are to rush across the border and attack the 
frontier towns. The prisoners at Johnson's Island are 
also to be released, and join in the affair. The princi- 



THE CONSPIRATOR. 79 

pal parties who are to engage in this work are now in 
Canada, and I have seen the leaders. The whole of 
this grand scheme is to be carried out on the same 
day, if possible, so as to create an universal panic, and 
to make the people call on the Government for peace. 
There has been other projects spoken of, but the Con- 
federate Government has not yet agreed to them, 
being willing to abide by the result of this project 

first. Mrs. and her sister are to take an active 

part in the firing of New York ; and, when I told her 
of it, she seemed almost mad with joy. She asserted 
that if it were possible she would like to make New 
York, like Grant has declared the Shenandoah Valley 
shall be, if the war continues, u a desert waste." 
How she curses Grant and Seward, and is not very 
choice in her remapks about Sheridan. Well ! Perhaps 
she has had cause. 

September 7, 1864. — So the news has reached Wash- 
ington that Morgan has been killed and his band 
routed. If the Canadian scheme is successful, that 
death, with the many others of good Southern men, 
will be fully avenged. 

Sheridan is moving again, and this time he carries 
a torch as well as a sword. Let them burn away; the 
South will meet fire with fire. 

September 8, 1864. — ISTo news yet of the proposed 
scheme. It cannot have failed. What can cause the 
delay ? 

September 12, 1864. — Have been on to New York. 
Have learned that they have received instructions to 
to await more direct orders from Canada, before com- 
mencing the work. The movement on the lakes is to 
be tried first. It would have been better to have 
carried it out all at one time ; but it is feared that they 
have not sufficient force to engage in all the enter- 
prises. Have received despatches to that effect for 
Richmond. 

[Here another interval takes place in the dates; 



80 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OP 

indicating plainly an absence from his home. — 
Editor.] 

September 20, 1864. — So Beall has carried out a part 
of his programme ; but the principal movement at 
Sandusky failed from some cause. Surely there has 
been no treachery. Beall has, however, done well, 
and the movement has created a diversion. If the 
prisoners at Johnson's Island had only been released, 
we might have had a good fighting force at full liberty 
on the Northern frontier. Something must have gone 
wrong in the matter. 

Should the elections fail us, we shall have to resort to 
some more efficient method to get rid of Lincoln. 

Sheridan has completely beaten our forces in the 
Valley, and is marching onward in triumph. The left 
of the Confederate army is ruined. 

[The record is now again for a time without interest, 
except as a journal of current events, and Surratt 
seems to have been merely an idle spectator. Occa- 
sional breaks in the Diary indicate absence from home ; 
but nothing is written to say how he had been en- 
gaged. — Editor.] 



CHAPTER XTTT, 

RAIDS, AND OTHER PLOTS RECORDED. 

November 3, 1864. — The prospects each day grow 
worse and worse with regard to securing the elec- 
tion. Lincoln has resolved to be again elected, and 
is sending home the troops to vote for him. If a man 
can get a thirty days' furlough for merely recording his 
vote for "Uncle Abe," as they call him, of course they 
will take the leave of absence so as to be able to see 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 81 

their friends. The feelings of the people are changing 
with the victories, and our chances have been lost. 

November 5, 1864. — New York seemed almost cer- 
tain for us, and we counted on her ; but a change in 
the programme of Lincoln may lose us that city, as 
there is some military movement going on that 

neither Booth nor I can readily make out. W , 

who is living with us, sa3 T s, he can gain nothing direct 
on the subject, although in one of the Departments. 

It was intended to have given the so-called American 
Metropolis a warming on election night; but I am afraid 
the plan will be frustrated. However, the order is to 
come from Canada, not from me. 

November 6, 1864. — Butler has been ordered to New 
York City. What for? Is our plan known ? It would 
be useless to attempt anything while he is there. 
" "Watch and wait" must be our motto for the pre- 
sent. 

November 7, 1864. — Prospects worse than ever. The 
only hope the South ever had of late will certainly now 
fail her. The Knights are powerless either to aid or 
lead. 

November 8, 1864. — The election returns are in, at 
least enough to decide that McClellan is defeated. To 
save the South, Lincoln must be removed before the 
4th of March. He shall never again be inaugurated. 
Booth wants his life, but I shall oppose anything like 
murder. It would serve our turn quite as well to cap- 
ture- the despot, and keep him for a while in Libby 
Prison. I reckon the South would then gain the day. 

November 9, 1864.— -It is nearly time we heard from 
Panama. If those engaged in the work can only suc- 
ceed in securing one of the Pacific steamers, she can 
be armed and operate in fine style in those waters. 
This movement, with our schemes from Canada, &c, 
will paralyze the North for a time ; during which 
period Congress may be made to pass a law in our 
favor. Co-operation is everything. 



82 TUB DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

November 10, 1864. — The armies are going into Win- 
ter quarters; the dreaded Butler has left New York, 
and now is our time to begin. I must leave for 
Canada to-rnorrow for instructions. 

| Here succeeds a break in the record of dates. — 
Editor.] 

November 23, 1864.— Have seen T and Mel) 

in Canada. The work is to commence at once. 8 

says I am to remain at Washington and operate thence, 
if an opportunity can be found. [ would have liked 
to have been engaged in the New York work; but it 
is thought in Canada that I should do better Here. 

I wish W would not be so inquisitive, lie 

somewhat cripples my movements. But he is very 
useful in getting those despatches, and I put him 
off, when he inquires about how I get my money, 
by telling him that I am mixed up with certain cot- 
ton speculations. 

November 23, L864. — Am getting anxious lest our 
scheme should fail. What an illumination to greet 
our last victory. And the North will have to pay for 
the bonfire. 

November 25, 1864. — A telegram just received from 

Mrs. that "Rob. and his men have work, which 

is expected to pay well." Good! Then this night 
will tell the tale. 

Nearly midnight and no news. New York ought to 

be brilliantly lit up before this. What is Mrs. 

about? Why has not Rob. telegraphed. 

November 26, 1864. — Failed again. Every one of 
them failed. A scheme so well planned, so finely lo- 
^ cated, and so skillfully divided among just enough to 
keep the whole thing secret, and yet to have failed. 
We must have had traitors among us. So good a 
thing could not have miscarried, but by design. 

The Border operations may succeed better; and if 
Charley only burns up Butler in the Greyhound that 
will be a good revenge. 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 83 

Every failure which may attend ova operations now, 
will add all the more to the final day of reckoning, when 
the Western wood-chopper will have to pay up lor all 
the .short comings. 

[Another break in the diary. — Editor.] 

Vecerfibetr 10, 1864. — The Richmond authorities are 
far from pleased at the course tilings have taken, and 
threaten to stop the supplies unless something more 
definite is carried out. Have despatches ready for 
Canada. 

It is painful to see the desolation of Virginia. War 
is indeed cruel. But the South will hold out while 
there is a man left. The. North by superior strength 
may subdue for the time ; but they will never co. 
the descendants of the Cavaliers. 

Butler escaped. " The devil always looks after his 
own." 

Mother and Booth are getting very intimate, and she 
appears to be engaged in something that is not yet clear 
to my mind. She had better keep out of any of his 
wild schemes ; they are barely practical, and he who 
undertakes them must perish. 

[The record breaks here again. — EDITOR.] 

December 16, 18b 4. — There Lg much excitement in 
Canada about the St. Alban's affair. The daring fel- 
lows had been arrested; but by some local flaw they 
were discharged. The Canadian Government have 
ordered their re-arrest; but have allowed them all the 
time necessary to make their escape before doing ho. It 
will be difficult forthem to get such evidence as will eau.se 
a conviction before a law court. Besides, the money 
they secured will pay for good legal assistance in the 
'matter, and there are plenty of lawyers in the Pro- 
vince whose influence would be enough to override, 
before a jury, any testimony the Yankc;- might bring. 
General -Dix may issue orders ; the Canadian Gov- 
ernment may "arrest the raiders,'^ and all show of 
law maybe carried out; but not one of the brave 



84 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

fellows who entered St. Alban's, will ever be con- 
victed. 

December 20, 1864. — The Governor General of 
Canada has just sent a dispatch that the officers of the 
law have succeeded in securing one of the St. Alban's 
raiders, as they are called. They will not dare to pun- 
ish him for any breach of neutrality. Besides, all this 
apparent activity on the part of the Government of the 
British Provinces, is only show, to prevent any retalia- 
tion as set forth in General Dix's order. 

[The records for the remainder of the year are un- 
important in connection with any movements of the 
rebel party. The writer alludes to the operations of 
the Canadian Parliament on the Neutrality question, 
and calls it a pretty attempt to cover up an actual 
scheme to aid the Southern cause. " If," says he " the 
South should really gain the day, the British will 
claim their do nothing acts as worth more than open 
assistance." — Editor.] 

New Year's Day, 1865. — Another year begun, and 
still we struggle on with no hope beyond despair, and 
none to aid us. Why will not the proper authorities 
agree to our plans. We must have money to carry 
them out, and none can be got without the consent had 
and obtained from Richmond. Lincoln once in our 
hands, and hurried off to Richmond ; then we could 
dictate far better terms than any others could do. 

January 10, 1865. — Visited Richmond again. Have 

seen . Have proposed our plans, and received 

a partial assent; to be only carried out when all else 
fail. Every effort to secure an honorable peace is to 
be first tried. That course is of no use, in my opinion. 
Old Blair has gone on to Richmond, and perhaps 
something may arise from his visit. I believe Presi- 
dent Davis would send Commissioners if Lincoln 
would only meet them. If he does, and they fail to secure 
the desired end, then our project is to be carried out. 

January 15, 1865. — Booth and Mudd were with me 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 85 

today at the "National." That fellow W was 

there. I would like to trust him, hut dare not. We 
have planned out the roads to he taken, if we only 
succeed in capturing Lincoln. Booth is indignant at 
the imbecility of the Confederate Government. So 
far, I believe he is right, and agree'with him that, if a 
blow is to be struck, it should be an effective one, and 
one that will make a lasting mark. Booth thinks we 
should do well to take Mother into our confidence, as 
I am so often away. I do not believe in women ; but 
in this case, perhaps, it would be better. She could 
assist us greatly if she is mindful and willing. Must 
leave for Canada tonight ; but I know nothing can or 
will be allowed to be done without the consent of 
the Confederate Government. The money-agent at 
Montreal is far too cautious to risk anything, unless 
there is a possibility of success, except on endorsement 
from the proper authorities as to the expenditure of 
the necessary funds. 

January 25, . 1865. — Have communicated the reply 
received at Richmond to the proper parties in Canada. 
They agree with us that such delays are bad, and that 
a good opportunity may be lost by such a waste of 
time. They have no faith in Peace Conferences ; 
neither have I. Such attempts, if they fail, will only 
make the Yankees strike the blow the harder ; for, it 
must be acknowledged, they have the power, and if 
the South can obtain no outside assistance, she must 
fall. The capture of Fort Fisher is the most serious 
injury the South has received during the whole war. 
They are now hemmed in by a wall of fire and steel. 
Blair has returned, and the Commissioners are to be 
met — at least that appears to be generally believed, as 
the old gentleman has gone on again to Richmond. 

January 27, 1865. — Blair is back again. Now we 
shall soon see the end of all, or the beginning of worse. 
Lincoln had better be wise or he will have to pay the 
penalty. 



86 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OP 

January 30, 1865. — The Commissioners have ar- 
rived — so the telegraph operator tells me. 

February 1, 1865. — Lincoln and Seward have both 
left to meet the Commissioners at Fortress Monroe. 






CHAPTER XIV. 

THE FIRST PLANS AND THEIR RESULT. 

February 4, 1865 — It is all over. Lincoln and 
Seward have returned, and there is no peace. The 
Governor-General of Canada has also signed the bill to 
prevent raids across the border. We are to perish, 
and none will help us ! The cause is deserted by God 
and man. Every plan has failed. Now, perhaps, we 
may hope for the success of our movement, for it is 
only by that that the South can save herself. 

February 6, 1865. — How disheartened the Southern 
papers read. " Sherman is riding rough-shod over the 
whole South, carrying destruction everywhere." This 
shall be terribly avenged by-and-by. 

[The remainder of the entries during February are 
mere simple records of current events, with an occa- 
sional, but slight comment on them, but signifying 
at the same time that it "would all be right before the 
end" was over. — Editor.] 

March 1, 1865. — The inauguration must take place. 
There are no means of reaching him before. The best 
laid scheme seems blocked on every side. But the 
opportunity will yet come. Well, better late than 
never. 

March 2, 1865. — Have arranged all our plans, and 
secured the desired assistance. Booth is desperate ; 
so are the others. They all seem ready to do any- 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 87 

thing to secure success. I don't think that young fellow 
Harold has much courage ; but, then, he may be made 
of use by-and-by. The risk is great, but the reward 
greater. We have all we want for the work — every- 
thing except the opportunity. 

March 8", 1865. — Too closely surrounded by his 
friends. No chance before the inauguration. The 
city is full, and all the office-seekers are buzzing 
around him like so many bees. Can't yet be done. 

March 4, 1865. — The inauguration is over, and 
nothing done yet. My hopes and prospects rest solely 
on this attempt, and should it fail, I am ruined for ever. 

March 5, 1865. — Lincoln attends a review on the 
7th. We have it all arranged now, and nothing 
can fail. He goes out unattended, and we shall be 
enough — seven of us. The suddenness of the whole 
thing will prevent any attempt at rescue until it is too 
late. And once safely in Richmond, the independence 
of the South is certain, and my fortune made. 

March 6, 1865. — All is prepared. ,. Tomorrow after- 
noon ! 

March 7, 1865. — Ruined ! my prospects blighted ! 
The whole thing has failed ! How was it that the 
route was changed ? After having everything so finely 
planned. — I could blow out my brains. — Pshaw ! what 
am I writing ? That fellow, Louis, is always around 
when he is not wanted. I nearly betrayed every thing 
this evening. But to think of so fine a plan going 
astray, and in such a manner. Could he have been 
warned ? Oh, no ! Our usual bad luck, that's all ! Curse 
it ! But for this mishap, the affair could not have fail ed ; 
and by this time we should have been on the road to 
Richmond. We shall never again have such a chance. 

[The foregoing three entries can perhaps be better 
explained from the following extract from the evidence 
of Louis I. Wiechman (the Louis, doubtless, alluded 
to above) given before the Military Commission during 
the trial of the Conspirators : — 



88 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OP 

During Payne's second visit to Mrs. Surratt's house, some time 
after the 4th of March, I retired from my office one day at half-past 
four o'clock ; I went to my room, and ringing the bell for Dan, the 
negro servant, told him to bring me some water, and inqui ed at the 
same time where John had gone ; he told me Massa John had left the 
front of the house, with six others, on horseback, about half-past two 
o'clock ; on going down to dinner I found Mrs. Surratt in the passage ; 
she was weeping bitterly, and I endeavored to console her ; she said, 
" John is gone away : go down to dinner, and make the best of your 
dinner you can;" after dinner I went to my room, sat down, com- 
menced reading, and about half-past six o'clock Surratt came in very 
much excited : in fact, rushed into the room ; he had a revolver in 
his hand — one of Sharp's revolvers — a four-barreHed revolver ; a small 
one, you could carry it in your vest pocket ; he appeared to be very 
much excited; I said : "John, what is the matter, why are you so 
much excited ?" he replied: "I will shoot any one that comes into 
this room; my prospect is gone, my hopes are blighted ;" in about 
ten minutes afterwards the prisoner Payne came into the room ; he 
was very much excited, and I noticed he had a pistol; about fifteen 
minutes afterwards Booth came into the room ; and Booth was so ex- 
cited that he walked around the room very frantically and did not 
notice me ; he had a whip in his hand ; I spoke to him, and recog- 
nizing me, he said ; "I did not see you;" the three then went up 
stairs into the back room, in the third story, and must have remained 
there about thirty minutes, when they left the house together ; on 
Surratt's returning home, I asked him where he had left his friend 
Payne ; he said Payne had gone to Baltimore, and Booth he said had 
gone to New York ; the negro boy afterwards told me that of the 
seven men who had gone out riding that afternoon, he said one was 
Massa John, and Booth, and Port Tobacco (Atzerodt), and that man 
who was stopping at the house, whom I recognized as Payne ; though 
they were very much excited when they came into the room, they 
were very guarded indeed ; Payne made no remark at all ; those ex- 
cited remarks made by Surratt were the only ones made ; Surratt once 
made the remark to me that if he succeeded in his " cotton specula- 
tion," his country would lose him forever, and that his name would 
go down green to posterity. 

The following is also an extract, taken from the 
evidence of John M. Lloyd, who kept the house for- 
merly occupied by Surratt. The hiding place pointed 
out in the evidence is doubtless the one mentioned in 
the first part of the Diary, when he writes about 
concealing the papers where they could not be dis- 
covered : — 

I reside at Mrs. Surratt's tavern, Surrattsville, about eleven miles 
from Washington ; some five or six weeks before the assassination of 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 89 

the President, John H. Surratt, David E. Harold, and G. A. Atzerodt 
came to my house ; Atzerodt and Surratt drove up to my house in the 
morning first, and went towards Tee Bee, a post office about five miles 
* below there ; they had not been gone more than half an hour when 
they returned with Harold ; John H. Surratt then called me into the 
front parlor, and on the sofa were two carbines, with ammunition, 
also a rope from sixteen to twenty feet in length, and a monkey 
wrench ; Surratt asked me to take care of these things, and to conceal 
the carbines ; I told him there was no place to conceal them ; he then 
took me into a room in the back part of the building and showed me 
where 1 could put them, underneath the joists of the second floor; 
Mr. Surratt assisted me in carrying them up stairs, with the cartridge 
boxes ; I put them in there according to his direction ; Surratt said 
he just wanted these articles to stay for a few days, and he would call 
for them. 

Taking these sworn statements in connection with the 
record in the Diary, it would appear that it had been 
the intention of Surratt and his companions to have 
captured the President and have taken him prisoner 
to Richmond, but that the whole thing failed by the 
driver of the President's carriage taking another road 
to the place where the review was to be held. The 
first project was evidently not assassination ; and that 
it only arose from the constant failures that a despera- 
tion ensued which ended in a cruel, cowardly murder. 

For several days not a single entry appears in the 
Diary, the wretched man apparently not feeling any 
inclination to record the whole of the failure that he 
mentions in such a broken and excited manner. The 
interest, however, is not lost in the document even at 
the point where it is resumed. — Editor.] 



CHAPTER XV. 



THE ASSASSINATION. 



March 17, 1865. — Goods news at last. Mrs. S. 

has arrived at our house from Richmond. She told 
Mother that she was the bearer of the most important 



90 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OP 

dispatches from that city for the Confederate agents in 
Canada ; that there was no time to be lost, and that, if 
the South ever hoped to succeed, it was in the belief 
that we would faithfully carry out the plans that she 
brought with her. We shall yet have some serious 
work to perform. 

Saw Booth to-day, and introduced him to Mrs. S — . 
After a few minutes conversation with her, John came 
to me with his eyes dancing with unusual and almost 
unnatural brilliancy. What could he have learned 
from her? 

March 18, 1865. — Booth called to-day and told me 
that he had gotten together in Washington all who 
were necessary for the purpose intended ; that they 
could be ready at a minute's notice. He had a long 
conversation with Mother, at the end of which he said 
that "if anything was to be done, it should not be de- 
layed, otherwise Tt would be too late." He declared 
his intention of going on to New York at once to per- 
fect matters. 

Mrs. S. left for Canada to-day. 

March 19, 1865.— Secured rooms for "Wood" at the 
" Herndon." That is as good a name as any other for 

him to go under here. W and I went together. 

It was a good idea that we had of saying the rooms 
were wanted for a sick man — his non-appearance at 
table will not therefore excite suspicion. If seen, he 
would not be thought very delicate in health. 

Booth left to-day for New York. We agreed upon 
a first rate cypher to send by telegraph, so that we 
might know what each other was doing, without 
letting any one else into the secret. All seems likely 
to go on well. 

March, 20, 1865.— Wood, the. Doctor and Port To- 
bacco met me to-day at the place appointed. They are 
all ready to co-operate at the proper moment, so that 
the plan cannot fail time ; and the very boldness of 
the movement will strike terror in those around, this 



91 

and prevent any one from coming to the rescue. All 
goes well. 

March 21, 1865. — No news yet received from Booth. 
I do not understand this. What can he be doing? 

Wood was at our house to-day. We had a long 
chat up in my room over matters in prospect. He 
showed me the spurs, bowie-knives and revolvers that 
were to be used if required to carry out our affair. 
The weapons are all first class, and Wood seems just 
the right kind of fellow to use them to advantage. He 
is both powerful and desperate. 

While we were engaged with our conversation, that 

fellow W must poke in his nose. I felt like being 

uncivil to him ; but thought it might excite suspicion. 
I am afraid he will yet suspect something ; and 
then, by some blundering remark, upset the whole 
thing. 

March 22, 1865. — Mrs. S. is expected to return 

to-day from Canada. She wishes to go back to Rich- 
mond at once, and I am to drive her and Mother down 
to the Point to-morrow, so that she may meet Howell 
who is take to her across. 

March 23, 1865. — Mrs. S. has not yet arrived. 

Received a dispatch to-day from Booth. How well 
the cypher works. Who could tell that so important 
a secret was concealed under the simple message. 
" Tell John to telegragh number and street at once." 

W. wanted to know what particular number and 

street was meant. This made me angry at his con- 
tinual questionings, and I said, hastily, " Don't be so 
damn'd inquisitive." This offended him and he left me 
without another word. 

Replied to Booth's dispatch. 

March 24, 1865.— Mrs. S. returned to-day from 

Canada. She starts to-morning early, to meet Howell 
at the Point. 

[Here one of those usual breaks takes place in the 
diary. — Editor.] 



92 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OP 

April 3, 1865. — Have had an exciting time for the 
past ten days. We started on the morning of the 25th 

of last month. I drove Mother and Mrs. S to the 

Point, but could find no one waiting to meet her there. 
Could not then tell the reason ; but have since learned 
that Howell was captured by one of the police boats on 
the 24th, while attempting to cross the Potomac. There 
was no option in the matter, therefore I had to go with 

Mrs. S. on to Richmond. What a condition that 

city is in. Everything so high that rich men have be- 
come poor, and those not so well off are starving. 
Booth, President Davis and Secretary Benjamin de- 
clared that Richmond should never be evacuated. 
Have brought on dispatches for Canada. 

News has reached here that Richmond has fallen. 
That must be one of Lincoln's lying dispatches. The 
Confederate Capital will not be surrendered. 

While taking oysters with W , have learned as 

definitely as could be possible that Richmond has 
really fallen. If that should be true, it will be dan- 
gerous to have these papers about, and therefore will 
take them with me to a place of safety in Canada. 

April 5, 1865. — Called on Booth here in New York. 
Told him not to be too hasty in carrying out the plan 
upon which we had agreed. Shall leave this evening 
for Canada. 

April 6, 1865 — Arrived here in Montreal to-day: 
Called at once on the Confederate agent, and handed 
him the dispatches I had brought from Richmond. He 
examined them and said : 

" This makes the thing all right." 
He then talked with me about our proposed plan of 
carrying off the President, Secretary of State and 
other officials, and said that the Confederate authori- 
ties had consented to the movement. He added that 
he hoped we should make a sure thing of it. To- 
morrow I am to receive the necessary funds for the 
venture. 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 93 

April 7, 1865— Called again to-day on the agent to get 
the money. He again conversed with me on the sub- 
ject, listened to the plan we had proposed, and inquired 
as to the part I was to take in the matter. Gave him 
all the information advisable. Would have given him 
more, but that his Secretary seemed to be regarding 
me in a manner that I did not like. I am afraid too 
many know of this affair to warrant its success. Have 
not yet obtained the money. 

April 8, 1865. — There seems to be no doubt now of 
the fall of Richmond ; and it appears that Lincoln has 
been riding in triumph through the streets of the cap- 
tured city. He may find such work dangerous. 
Glorying over the fallen braves ! Cowardly triumph 1 
He will yet pay dearly for that triumph ! All is not 
yet lost while Lee's army remains in the field. 

April 9, 1865. — Lee's forces are said to be in a very 
serious position, and cannot escape destruction if they 
continue to fight. But Lee is a wary general. 

April 10, 1865. — Lincoln is again in Washington, 
Now is our time to act, and avenge the losses we have 
sustained on those who have caused them. Booth has 
written to me to say he has changed his mind, and 
wants my assistance in Washington. 

It is rumored to-day that Lee has surrendered. 
That is impossible. The Yankees always set afloat 
these lying reports to operate on the Northern mind. 

April 11, 1865. — Have received the necessary funds, 
and shall start tomorrow for Washington, to join 
Booth in his scheme. 

The Yankee flag is to be raised over the battered 
walls of Fort Sumter on the anniversary of Anderson's 
surrender. If Lincoln should go down there, we shall 
miss our promised game. He must not be lost sight 
of. 

[A break here takes place in the entries. — Editor. 

April 15, 1865. — Lincoln is gone at last. Booth has 
carried out his oft-repeated threat, and has, so it is 



94 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

said, really taken the life of the tyrant. It seems too 
good to be true. But the " assassin" — Saviour — is be- 
ing pursued. If he takes the road planned out, he 
will certainly escape. He has indeed gained an im- 
mortality of fame. 

April 16, 1865. — My name is mentioned as connected 
with this affair. The States is no longer a safe place 
for me especially as Mother has been arrested. 

[From this time forward the diary is very. irregular- 
ly kept, at times full of records of events and passing 
thoughts, at others containing brief entries, with long 
intervals between them. Regrets and self praise, 
together with eulogies of the Confederates in Canada, 
&c, form the greater portion of the work, showing 
that, whenever distressed in mind or elevated in spirits, 
he generally relieved both, by writing in his Diary. 
Only those items that have been considered of general 
interest have been selected, in order to trace the career 
of the Conspirator, and to show the state of his mind 
from the time of the Assassination until the close of 
the Record. The rambling remarks and unimportant 
entries are therefore excluded. — Editor.] 



CHAPTER XVI. 

SURRATT IN CANADA LIVERPOOL AND EUROPE. 

April 18, 1865. — Safe again on British soil, and 
under the protection of a neutral power. It will give 
them some trouble to find me here, and still more to 
take me ; but to prevent accidental discovery I will 
disguise myself by dying my hair and staining my 
skin. I must remain here for a time, and when an 
opportunity offers sail for Europe. 



THE CONSPIRATOR. 95 

April 19, 1865. — Montreal not safe ; left it, therefore, 
last evening. Detectives about everywhere. I shall 
not be looked for in this retired place. 

I was foolish enough to make myself known to that 
stranger at St. Albans. Who knows but that he may 
have been one of the detectives ? In a case like this, 
caution is the best policy. I must be very careful. 

What must be Mother's feelings at this time ? Her- 
self in prison, and unaware of my safety. How did 
they discover her connection with the affair ? Some 

one must have betrayed her. Hope W has not 

been babbling. 

Booth must have had some good reason for chang- 
ing his plan, or he never would have done so. We had 
agreed on so good a scheme, that to change it seemed 
like tempting destiny. 

April 28, 1865. — The Yankees are going to mock 
justice by pretending to try those whom they have 
captured. They cannot revenge themselves on Booth 
— he is out of their power. He died bravely, gun in 
hand, and without flinching. As for Harold, he was 
chicken-hearted, and deserves to be hung. 

I wonder what is intended to be done with mother. 
Surely they will not hang a woman ! Should they do 
so, I will live only to bide my time. 

May 11, 1865. — I find the Yankees are commencing 
what they call the trial with closed doors. Secret 
plottings to take the life of a few poor victims, and one 
a woman. The people and the press will cry such a 
thing down, or I am much mistaken. 

I am safe here at any rate, under the protection of 
those professing my own religion. I have sought a 
sanctuary, and have found it. While here there is 
neither fear of betrayal, nor risk of discovery. 

May 13, 1865. — News has just been brought to me 
that President Davis has been captured. If that be 
true, all our plans and dangerous risks have been in 



vain. 



96 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

June 1, 1865. — The trial drags on its weary way, and 
they are trying to take evidence condemning me as 
well as the rest — for I feel convinced they are all 
doomed. 

June 30, 1865. — It is said the trial is over, and the 
evidence so strong that none will escape. What a 
narrow escape I have had. If taken in the States, my 
fate would have been settled long before this. What 

a fool W was to say anything about it. They 

could not have hurt him even if he had remained 
silent. 

- July 8, 1865. — They have hung my mother. Curse 
them ! in every way curse them T She was no party 
to the mad freaks of Booth ! She has been murdered 
by Johnson, but I will be even with them yet. After 
my sister pleading as she did for her mother's life, and 
yet they have hung her. Payne and Harold ; well ! 
they were in the plot ; but then that cowardly fellow, 
Atzerodt, Johnson ought to have pardoned him, if 
even only because he was too cowardly to attempt to 
kill him. But they are all hung, and the rest have 
been sent to the Dry Tortugas. But, my mother ! 
Curse them ! curse them all ! 

[A very long interval takes place in the Diary, as if 
the writer was so much troubled by the reflections 
caused by the re-perusal of his last entry that he 
dare not record anything further of his own actions. — 
Editor.] 

August 29, 1865. — All has been prepared for me to 
go to Europe, and I shall therefore bid a long farewell 
to that country for which I have risked so much — and 
in vain. I do not wish to die yet — I desire to live if 
only to make some parties suffer for having murdered 
my mother. 

My disguise has so far been perfect, and even my 
best friends do not know me. It has been an easy 
thing, therefore, to elude the detectives sent to track 
me out, and I believe they have given up the search ; 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 97 

but still it will require some amount of both assurance 
and money to move about as safely among the Conti- 
nental spies, if I am known there. Once ashore in 
France or Spain, and I shall fear nothing ; until then, 
I feel as if in hourly peril. Perhaps I shall go to 
Eome — I shall be safer there than anywhere. 

September 5, 1865. — Bade farewell to those kind 
friends who have so long given me a shelter. May 
their safety never be endangered, or their peace and 
happiness disturbed. 

[The next entry appears to have been written on the 
steamer, bound for Europe, but has no date. — Editor.] 

We had a fine voyage so far ; but I cannot tell what 
distance has been traveled. Why do not these English 
vessels issue a bulletin, as on board those of the 
American service. It would be a great accommoda- 
tion to know how we are getting along. 

I wonder who the man is that sailed with me from 
Montreal to Quebec. He seems to have taken a great 
interest in my behalf, and when he learned that I was 
Surratt, the Confederate, who had been through so 
much, he seemed both surprised and pleased. I re- 
collect he asked me several questions, among which 
was one inquiring whether or not I had been connected 
with the killing of Lincoln. 

"Not exactly that," I replied, "but I have been 
concerned in a trick to carry him off. The plan was 
concocted by Booth and myself; but while I was in 
Canada, the main features were changed by Booth." 

September 23, 1866. — Arrived at Londonderry, Ireland. 
Thought it necessary to go ashore in disguise, and, 
when in the city, found my precautions valuable, as a 
full description of my person had been sent to Europe 
in order to secure my arrest. Believed Londonderry 
safer than Liverpool for the first visit. 

September 25, 1866. — Crossed over to-day to Liver- 
pool. Found an asylum in the Oratory of the Church 
of the Holy Cross. My friends could not learn whether 



98 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

or not there had been any recent orders to secure my 
arrest, but still advised me to be cautious, at least for 
a short time, until I could get to the Continent. 

[The movements of Surratt had, however, been 
closely watched up to this time, and official corre- 
spondence had passed between the various Consuls 
and the Secretary of State as to the advisability of 
arresting him ; but after due consideration, and con- 
sultation with the Secretary of War and the Judge 
Advocate-General, it was, on October 13, 1865, decided 
"that no action should be taken in regard to the 
arrest of the supposed John H. Surratt at present." 
This doubtless explains how it was that John H. 
Surratt had been so long in Europe without being 
placed under some restraint. — Editor.] 

October 1, 1865. — Arrived in London and presented 
my letters. All right. 

October 3, 1865. — This England is a dull, heavy place. 
No amusement. I live, it is true, in a grand hotel ; 
but it is not like an American hotel. There is no 
scarcity of money — it would not be wise for certain 
parties to let me run short. But this living in per- 
petual disguise is not very gratifying to my feelings. 
I do not like London, and will try the Continent 

October 30, 1865. — V wishes me to go to Spain ; 

but I preferred Paris, and therefore shall take my de- 
parture to-morrow. He will get the letters prepared 
by that time, and bring the funds. 

October 31, 1865. — I start to-day ; having received 
the proper letters of introduction to persons in Paris 
and seventy pounds in money. Now for a round of 
pleasure, if only to drown my senses, for the memory 
of my mother's death makes my life a misery. Were 
it not that I should put my own neck into a halter, I 
would send on to Washington the names of those who 
" aided and abetted " in the rebellion, and it will be 
found that they did not all belong to the Democratic 
party. 



99 

November 1, 1865. — Arrived in Paris. This is, in- 
deed, a gay city. Hope the supply of funds will not 
run short. 

November 2, 1865. — Conversed with Mr. A. to-day. 
He says Paris will ruin me, as I have already been 

recognized more than once. I think and the rest 

would like to get rid of me. They know that if I was 
out of the way, there would be none left to betray 
them. Although not the actual assassins, they had 
more to do with it than they would like known, 

especially , of New York. A wants me to go 

to Rome and join the Papal Zouaves. I could then be 
better protected, and money could reach me as well 
there as in Paris. 

November 8, 1865. — My letters have gained me ad- 
mission into the Zouaves. Surely I shall not be 
recognized here. In John Watson few would expect 
there existed the Confederate John H. Surratt. 

[The subsequent entries are merely records of trivial 
events that occurred in the regiment to which he be- 
longed, with occasionally a memorandum of money 
received from London, &c. While making an entry 
of a sum received from New York, he adds that " any 
refusal to keep up the supply will be attended by ex- 
posure, even if it may be necessary to go to New York 
for that purpose." — Editor.] 

March 17, 1866.— How did that fellow St. M get 

into the Zouaves ? He recognized me at once as the 
one who ran off with his girl. I shall have some work 
to keep his tongue quiet. He says that he did not care 
so much for the girl as to make it a point of a quarrel 
between us. I hope not. Still I would prefer not 
having been recognized. 

[The next interesting entry bears the following 
date — the others being of a very trivial character:— 
Editor.] 

April 15, 1866. — Have got into another mess with 
St. M . It appears he was after some pretty Ro- 



100 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

man girl here / and my luck led me the same way. He 
tried his best, and I mine ; but the result is he has 
come out a little the worse. I've got the girl, and he 
swears revenge. He can do nothing here against me ; 
I am too well protected. 

June 16, 1866 — St. M appears to be a better 

friend than before, and to have given up the idea of 
the girl; but yet, I am fully convinced he does not like 
being twice cheated thus by the same party. His whole 
talk is now about the late war and death of Lincoln. 
He seems anxious to know whether President Davis 
was connected with or not. That is a secret I will tell 
to no man, while I am safe myself; but if the Confed- 
erates desert me, then let them prepare for trouble. 

[The entries next made, and for the next four months, 
refer principally to brief descriptions of the places where 
he was stationed, remarks on the girls, &c, &c. They 
are therefore omitted. — Editor.] 

November 2, 1866 — Have received warning of ap- 
proaching danger. What can it be ? Shall I fly ? 
Where to ? It may be fancy only, so I will stay and 
face it. I am too well protected to fear. 

November 6, 1866. — Arrested! To be sent to the 
United States — what for ? — the gallows ? Perhaps too 
true ! I am to die, but not unavenged. I leave 

these papers for my gallant companion, D H , 

with an earnest request that he will have them pub- 
lished in America. I will not be hanged — a better 
fate will be mine. I have often noticed the precipice. 
A leap down that will end my misery at once. 

[Here the diary closes. Let the world judge be- 
tween Surratt and his accomplices. The death of 
President Lincoln was certainly a cold-blooded assassi- 
nation ; but whether there were not others as guilty, 
in fact, if not in act, as those who have been stigma- 
tized as the conspirators, is something that may be 
found out in the course of time. Should this be the case, 
it is to be hoped they may be justly punished — Editor.] 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 101 



CHAPTER XVIL 

SUBSEQUENT EVENTS — THE PERILOUS PLUNGE. 

To complete the record, the editor has compiled the 
following facts, for which the writer of the Diary is not 
to be held responsible : — 

Surratt was arrested on affidavit of a companion in 
arms given to Gen. King, the U. S. Minister at Rome, 
while he was serving in the Zouave regiment of the Pope ; 
and, on November 9, Cardinal Antonelli informed that 
official of the arrest and subsequent escape of the pris- 
oner. The General at once notified Mr. Seward, 
adding that " As Veroli is close to the frontier, it is 
not at all unlikely that Surratt will make good his es- 
cape from his Zouave pursuers into the Italian King- 
dom. I thought it well, therefore, to send a confiden- 
tial person at once to Florence, to lay the whole case 
before the American Minister, and solicit his aid and 
that of the Italian government to the recapture ; for I 
did not feel at all sure that either a message by tele- 
graph or a letter by mail, to Mr. Marsh, would, under 
the circumstances, escape the surveillance or possible 
interruption of the Papal authorities. I hope to have 
a report from my messenger within two or three days, 
and as Surratt was in his Zouave dress when he effected 
his escape, I think the chance a fair one that he will 
be retaken." 

The following official despatch announced the 
escape : 

" To His Excellency the General, Minister of War, at Rome. 

" I received the following telegram from Captain Lambilly : At the 
moment of leaving prison, surrounded by six men as guards, Watson 
plunged in the Ravine (more than a hundred feet) which defends the 
prison. Fifty Zouaves are in pursuit. I will send your excellency 
the news which I shall receive by telegraph. 

"The Lieutenant-Colonel Allet." 



102 THE DIARY AND JOURNAL OF 

The following official report gives the details of the 
perilous plunge and escape : — 

TO THE MINISTER OF WAR, ROME. 

" Feroli, 8th November. 

" My Colonel : I regret to announce to you that notwithstanding 
all my precautions, Jean Watson has succeeded in escaping. To 
carry out the orders received, I had sent Sergeant Halyeril and six 
men to Tresulti, where this Zouave was on detachment. They did not 
find him there, for on that day Watson had asked leave to go to Feroli. 
I charged the corporal of the third company, Vanderstracten, to take 
him and turn him over to the post corporal Warren, to whom I had 
already given all my instructions on the subject. All the measures or- 
dered were carried out from point to point. Two sentinels, with 
loaded arms, were placed, one at the very door of his prison, with or- 
ders to prevent any communication of the prisoner with anyone out- 
side, and the other at the door of the barracks. The prison, and the 
doors and*vindows, &c, had been inspected in the minutest details by 
the locksmith of the common ; there was, therefore, nothing to fear in 
that quarter. All passed off well until this morning at 4 o'clock. 

•'The prisoner was then awakened, and rose, put on his gaiters, and 
took his coffee with a calmness and phlegm quite English. The gate 
of the prison opened on a platform which overlooks the country. A 
balustrade prevents promenaders from tumbling on the rocks situated 
at least thirty-five feet below the windows of the prison. Beside the 
gate of this prison are situated the privies of the barracks. Watson 
asked permission to halt there. Corporal Warren, who had six men 
with him as guards, allowed him to stop, very naturally, not thinking 
he or the Zouaves present, that their prisoner was going to try to es- 
cape at a place which it seemed quite impossible to us to clear. This 
perilous leap was, however, to be taken, and was crowned with suc- 
cess. In fact Watson, who seemed quiet, seized the balustrade, made 
a leap and cast himself into the void, falling on the uneven rocks, 
where he might have broken his bones a thousand times, and gained 
the depths of the valley. Patrols were immediately organized, but in 
vain. We saw a peasant who told us that he had seen an unarmed 
Zouave who was going toward Caxa Mari, which is the way to Pied- 
mont. ****** 
" Colonel of Detachments, 

" Delambilly. 

" I have sent the description of this Zouave to the gendamerie." 

As yet we have received no information of the ad- 
ventures through which the rash conspirator must have 
passed after recovering from the shock of his jump 
over the precipice ; but, doubtless, upon finding he had 
escaped in so wonderful a manner, the love for life, 
strong in every breast, induced him to make one more 



JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 103 

attempt to elude the vengeance which was so su rely 
pursuing him. He was traced from point to p oint 
through the Italian territory ; but although the strictest 
search was made, he could not be found anywhere in 
that Country. 

Intelligence having at last been received that a per- 
son answering the description given of Surratt had 
made his way to the City of Naples, General King at 
once placed the Consul on his guard, and the Ameri- 
can fleet was called into service to prevent the escape of 
the accused man from any of the ports of the country. 
The warning was however given too late, and the fugi- 
tive was enabled to make good his escape, as will be 
seen by the following dispatch sent by the Consul at 
Naples to the one at Malta : — 

"Surratt, one of the conspirators against Lincoln, left here last 
evening in the steamer Tripoli for Alexandria, under the name of Wal- 
ters or Watson. He has on the uniform of a Zouave of the Papal 
States. The steamer stops at Malta to-morrow to coal. Have him ar- 
rested. If you do not receive this in ttme, telegraph to the Consul at 
Alexandria." 

On December 2d Surratt was finally taken, and the 
following Cable despatch, announcing his arrest in 
Egypt, was received the same day by Mr. Seward : 

" To Seward, Washington : 

"Have arrested John Surratt, one of President Lincoln's assassins. 
"No doubt of identity. Hale, 

"Alexandria." 

The Admiral of the Mediteranean Squadron was 
then telegraphed to by Secretary Seward, and on De- 
cember 17th, the "Swatara;" one of the U. S. Steam- 
ers, passed Malta on the way to Alexandria to bring 
the wretched man to Washington, for the purpose of 
taking his trial for complicity with those who caused 
the death of President Lincoln ; and, on the 22d of 
the same month, the prisoner was placed on board the 
before-named steam corvette, in compliance with the 
orders received from the United States Government. 



104 JOHN H. SURRATT, THE CONSPIRATOR. 

There has been much anxiety manifested by persons 
of different grades of society to mix up, with this sad 
conspiracy, the name of Jefferson Davis. To those, 
as well as to others, the editor recommends a calm and 
dispassionate perusal of the diary, with the hope that 
prejudice will be set aside for ever, and justice be done 
to all parties. 

The Editor in giving publicity to this document has 
had no intention of taking any particular side of the 
question — either for the Government and against Sur- 
ratt, or for the accused againt his accusers. Those who 
desired the suppression of the diary doubtless had an 
object in the matter, one that can better be explained 
by themselves than by the Editor of this volume. 

The Diary is placed before the public in order to 
show what the writer himself thought on the events 
current of the late rebellion ; and if it appears to con- 
demn him, or extenuate his conduct, every allowance 
must be made for the times in which it was written, 
and the exciting circumstances by which he was sur- 
rounded. 



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The Divorce 

Margeret, Marchioness 

of Miniver 

The Fallen Star 

BOOKS BY POPULAR AUTHOR! 
The Hen-Pecked Husband . 

Out of the Depths 

Almost a Heroine. 

Florence DeLacy 

Harry Berford. 

The Marchioness 

Pierre, the Partisan 

The Rival Adventm-ers 

Jane Horton 

Forecastle Yarns 

The Flying Cloud 

Jolly Jack 

The Young Shipwright 

The Life Raft - 

True Blue 

Ben Ratcliffe. 

The Incendiaries 

Violet Davenant 

Fast Life — 

Ellen Maynard 

Roderick, the Rover 

Jack Harold 

The Criminal 

The Outlaw 

The Road to Ruin 

Grace Willard 

A lice Wade 

Black Jokes for Blue Devils 

The Pirate's Daughter 

The Count's Neice 

Fanny Campbell-- 

The Naval Officer 

The Queen of the Prairies.. 
The American Housewife.. 
How to Cook and Carve. .. 
Boxing without a Master... 

The Horse Doctor 

The Cattle Doctor 

Expose of Sons of Malta 



Any Work in this List will be sent to any place free of postage on receiptof pri 
Brady's Mammoth Catalogue of all the best and most popular Books sent f re- 

FREDERIC A. BRADY, 22 Ann St., N. 7 



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